A new Florida law aimed at improving care for people living with sickle cell disease will take effect July 1, requiring certain healthcare providers to complete training on sickle cell disease management as part of their first license or certification renewal.
Known as HB 353/SB 844, the legislation requires a two-hour continuing education course focused on sickle cell disease care management, including pain management, treatment standards, and culturally responsive care. Supporters say the law is a significant step toward addressing longstanding disparities that many sickle cell patients face in healthcare settings.
The measure was sponsored in the Florida House by Felicia Robinson and in the Senate by Shevrin Jones. It was signed into law on March 27 and officially takes effect July 1.
According to advocates, the legislation is designed to ensure healthcare professionals receive evidence-based training on a disease that disproportionately affects Black communities and is often misunderstood by medical providers.
“For far too long, sickle cell warriors have faced delayed treatment, stigma, and harmful misconceptions in medical settings,” said Kemba O. Gosier, president of the Advancing Sickle Cell Advocacy Project (ASAP), in a statement announcing the bill’s enactment.
ASAP, a Miami Gardens-based advocacy organization, spent years working alongside patients, caregivers, and community partners to push for the legislation. The group says improved provider education has been one of its top priorities as it works to strengthen healthcare outcomes for Floridians living with sickle cell disease.
More than 8,000 Floridians are living with sickle cell disease, according to advocates, while thousands more carry the sickle cell trait. Supporters of the law believe the required training could help reduce disparities in emergency room care, improve patient experiences, and strengthen trust between healthcare providers and the sickle cell community.
Community Continues the Fight for Awareness
The passage of HB 353/SB 844 comes as South Florida organizations continue to raise awareness and support families affected by sickle cell disease.
One of those efforts is the 3rd Annual Kevin J. Francis Memorial Scholarship Luncheon, scheduled for June 20 at the Miami Shores Country Club. The event honors the life and legacy of Kevin J. Francis through scholarships awarded to sickle cell warriors and caregivers pursuing educational opportunities.
This year, five scholarships will be presented to recipients whose lives have been impacted by sickle cell disease.
Hy-Lo News is a proud sponsor of the event, and CEO and Publisher Janey Tate will serve as one of this year’s hosts.
Organizers say the luncheon not only raises scholarship funds but also helps keep public attention focused on the challenges faced by individuals and families living with sickle cell disease.
The event begins at 1 p.m. on June 20 at the Miami Shores Country Club. Tickets are $75, with proceeds supporting the scholarship fund. Attendees also have the option to donate tickets for sickle cell warriors to attend.
As Florida prepares to implement its new sickle cell education requirements on July 1, advocates say both policy changes and community-driven initiatives remain critical to improving outcomes for those living with the disease.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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