Bill > S0704

This bill: Defines the term "first episode psychosis program" as an evidence-based program for individuals between 14 and 30 years of age experiencing early signs of serious mental illness, including intensive case management, therapy, employment support, family education, and appropriate medication. Requires the annual state behavioral health assessment to describe the availability and access to first episode psychosis programs across the state. Revises background screening requirements for peer specialists, allowing individuals with certain felony convictions to become certified as peer specialists if they meet specified criteria and obtain an exemption. Requires the Department of Children and Families to develop a training program for peer specialists, give preference to certified peer specialists as trainers, and certify peer specialists directly or approve a third-party credentialing entity to do so. Allows peer specialist services to be reimbursed as a recovery service through the department, a behavioral health managing entity, or the Medicaid program. Provides a grandfather clause to recognize all peer specialists certified as of the effective date of the act.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2020/704