Healthcare providers across Florida are entering 2026 with a set of legal challenges that look very different from those of just a few years ago. Evolving regulations, heightened enforcement, and new technologies such as telemedicine and AI are reshaping compliance requirements and exposing physicians to new risks.
Why Legal Counsel Is Critical
Healthcare law is one of the most complex and heavily regulated areas of practice. Attorneys who focus specifically on this field understand the intricacies of compliance, reimbursement, licensing, and practice structuring. As healthcare law attorney David Di Pietro of Di Pietro Partners explains,
“Healthcare providers don’t want to be in the position of teaching their lawyer what a CPT code is. You want an attorney who speaks your language and can protect your career from day one.”
Stricter Telehealth Compliance
The pandemic accelerated the acceptance of telemedicine, but regulators have since tightened the rules. Physicians practicing across state lines must now secure specific telemedicine licenses, and prescribing controlled substances through virtual visits is closely monitored. Federal agencies such as the DEA and CMS, along with the Florida Department of Health, have increased oversight of telehealth practices.
High-Risk Specialties Under Scrutiny
Certain fields are particularly vulnerable to investigations. Pain management providers, given their prescribing patterns, are frequently audited. In addition, Florida has introduced new requirements for office-based surgery centers, particularly in plastic surgery, following a surge of enforcement actions and patient safety concerns.
Audits and Investigations on the Rise
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers have stepped up audits and overpayment recoupment demands. In many cases, these reviews occur years after reimbursement, creating sudden financial strain for practices. Florida’s Department of Health has also become more aggressive in pursuing disciplinary investigations that can impact licensure.
Non-Compete Agreements in Medicine
Another trend affecting healthcare professionals is the enforcement of restrictive non-compete agreements. These contracts can significantly limit career mobility, especially in densely populated regions such as South Florida. Physicians are encouraged to seek legal counsel before signing employment agreements to avoid future conflicts.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of experienced healthcare writers and editors, led by managing editor Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare journalism. Since 1998, our team has delivered trusted, high-quality health and wellness content across numerous platforms.
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