Florida Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

How many months after a licensee's death must a second local newspaper publication occur to inform patients of medical records availability?

1. 18

2. 20

3. 22

4. 24

The correct answer is: 22

The requirement for notifying patients about the availability of medical records following a licensee's death involves publishing in a local newspaper to ensure that patients are adequately informed. The correct timing for the second publication is crucial for compliance with state regulations, aimed at protecting patients' rights to access their medical records. In Florida, the law stipulates that the second publication must occur 22 months after the licensee’s death. This timeframe is established to provide adequate notice to patients who may not have been aware of the practitioner's passing, as medical continuity is important for ongoing patient care. By ensuring the second publication is made within this specific period, the law strives to balance the need for patient awareness and the nature of medical records management. The other options do not align with the established guidelines in Florida law, which mandates this 22-month window for the second notification publication. This clear timeline emphasizes the importance of preserving patient access to their medical records in a timely manner.