Are there any specific regulations for hospices regarding birds in Long Term Care Facilities?
Currently, Hospice facilities are licensed by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). AHCA can be reached at (850) 414-6010 or online at: http://www.fdhc.state.fl.us/Contact/index.shtml (opens in new window) The Department of Health (DOH) regulates institutional food service establishments and conducts residential facility physical plant inspections at places such as hospices. DOH s residential facilities rule (Chapter 64E-12, FAC) does not prohibit pet birds from being kept in the facility. However, the DOH food code, Chapter 64E-11 of the Florida Administrative Code, does prohibit birds in a licensed food facility as stated below. 64E-11.008(8) reads, “No live birds or animals except for crustaceans, shellfish, and fish in aquariums shall be allowed in a food service establishment, in vehicles used for transporting food or in any other area or facility used to conduct food service operations; except as provided under section 413.08, F.S., and, further provided, that live bi
