Background: Issuing Florida’s Emergency Order

On March 16, 2020, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees signed, stamped and finalized Emergency Order 20-002. In doing so, Florida joined what would become the vast majority of states in modifying licensure requirements for physicians in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency.

The surgeon general’s order waived licensing requirements for out-of-state healthcare professionals, advanced life support professionals and basic life support professionals so that they could render services in Florida for the purposes of preparing for, responding to and mitigating any effect of COVID-19. In addition to waiving licensing requirements for in-person services, the order exempted out-of-state physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses from licensing requirements governing the provision of telehealth. The order also impacted emergency medical services training programs, physical examination requirements for physician certifications, prescription drug distribution and controlled substance prescription renewals (including medical marijuana). The order was to expire 30 days after signing—April 15, 2020.

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