February Newsletter
February Newsletter
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We would like to share an important update regarding a proposed rule change by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) related to how home health aides for medically fragile children may be trained and used in the future. At this time, these changes are proposed only and are not yet in effect.
Because these proposals may impact families receiving Private Duty Nursing (PDN) services, we want to ensure you are informed and understand what this could mean for your child.
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AHCA is proposing updated training standards for Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children. Under the proposal:
Controlled medications, including seizure rescue medications such as Diastat or Valtoco, would continue to require administration by a licensed nurse and cannot be delegated to an aide.
Training requirements for aides would be specific to each child’s physician-ordered plan of care, helping ensure care remains individualized.
Florida Medicaid may cover up to 12 hours per day and 40 hours per week of Family Home Health Aide (FHHA) services for children under age 21 who are receiving PDN services, when ordered by a physician and authorized under state guidelines.
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Atlantic Care Services is proactively reaching out to families so we can plan ahead and minimize any potential disruption to care. Our goal is to ensure the least amount of disruption possible while continuing to meet your child’s medical needs safely.
Please remember:
Any changes to your child’s schedule require a physician’s order
If you have questions or anticipate possible scheduling adjustments, please contact your scheduling team so we can work together to support your child’s care needs
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At this time, AHCA has not released a timeline for when these proposed changes may take effect.
If you would like additional information, you may review the proposed changes at the following links:
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AHCA will hold a public workshop to receive input on the proposed rule:
Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM (ET)
Location:
Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive, Building 3, Conference Room B
Tallahassee, FL 32308Call-In Option: (888) 585-9008
Conference Code: 998-518-088#
HCAF Update
Event Recaps
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Be a Hero 5K
02.21.2026
Our team was proud to participate in the Be a Hero 5K in support of Abilities Workshop! This incredible organization provides critical support to special needs families in crisis, and we were honored to help make a difference—one step at a time.
It was a fun and meaningful event, and we truly enjoyed meeting so many wonderful individuals and families there. We were grateful to come together in support of such an important cause. We look forward to joining Abilities Workshop again next year!
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Magic Game
03.01.2026
Our team was proud to host our 4th Annual Patient Appreciation Magic Basketball Game! It was such a joy to spend the evening with so many of our amazing patients and their families, cheering on the Magic and enjoying the excitement of the game together.
From the energy in the arena to the smiles and laughter shared throughout the night, it was a truly special experience. We are so grateful for the opportunity to connect outside of the office and celebrate the wonderful community we’re honored to serve.
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Out of the Darkness
02.07.2026
Our team was honored to participate in the Out of the Darkness Walk in support of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. This meaningful event brings communities together to remember loved ones, offer hope, and help raise funds for critical prevention efforts.
It was a powerful and inspiring day, and we were grateful to walk alongside so many individuals and families united for such an important cause. Together, we continue working to spread awareness, encourage conversation, and support those who need it most.
Sandra exemplifies professionalism, compassion, and quiet confidence in her work each day.
Meet Sandra our December Caregiver of the Month!
She consistently prioritizes her patient’s needs, communicates thoughtfully with families and the team, and maintains a calm, professional presence even in challenging situations. Sandra is a steady and trusted caregiver who brings reliability and heart to everything she does. She is a valued member of our team, and we are incredibly grateful for the dedication and care she provides.
Shoutout to our December Caregiver of the Month Nominees!
Marielis D.
Mariely L.
Adam C.
Carmen S.
Steven R.
David H.
Jelianne H.
Virgen M.
Najah M.
Manuel P.
Daisy N.
Jhouline V.
Margarita N.
Shamya B.
Gabriel C.
Debora R.
Dairaceliz G.
Marielis D. Mariely L. Adam C. Carmen S. Steven R. David H. Jelianne H. Virgen M. Najah M. Manuel P. Daisy N. Jhouline V. Margarita N. Shamya B. Gabriel C. Debora R. Dairaceliz G.
Click the link below to nominate a nurse for our next Caregiver of the Month! All you have to do is write in their name and why you would like them to win. At the end of the month our internal team will vote for the winner out of your submissions.
Matchmaking Moment…
We’re excited to introduce you to Tanya, one of our new caregivers, who brings 22 years of experience and a heartfelt passion for caring for others.
Outside of work, Tanya enjoys tending to her butterfly garden where she raises and hatches butterflies and invites neighborhood kids and grandkids to help release them. She also volunteers in her church’s kids ministry, enjoys puzzles, and loves taking walks. Caring for others is truly her superpower, and she believes fun and laughter are the best medicine.
Tanya is experienced in Trach and Gtube. She is located in Saint Cloud and is interested in finding a family in Lake Nona, Lee Vista, Conway, Hunters Creek, Waterford Lakes, and Saint Cloud. She is currently seeking a full-time day shift position with a family she can grow with over time.
If you’re interested in scheduling a meet and greet with Tanya, please contact our main line at 407-270-5501, and we would be happy to set one up for you!
Meet Wyatt
Wyatt is a bright and lovable 4-year-old who brings joy to everyone around him. He lives in the Winter Garden area with his mom, dad, and older sister in a warm, welcoming home that also includes a few pet turtles. Wyatt loves being held and cuddled, enjoys children’s music, colorful TV shows, and being read to, and thrives on gentle interaction, consistency, and familiar faces.
The family is thoughtful and selective in finding the right fit and is looking for a female caregiver with a warm, positive personality who brings great energy and good vibes. The ideal nurse must be physically able to kneel and sit for extended periods and approach caregiving with patience and compassion. New graduates are welcome.
Wyatt’s care needs include GJ-tube management, frequent oral suctioning and monitoring multiple seizures daily. The family is looking for coverage Monday through Saturday from 7:45 AM to 7:30 PM, and Sundays from 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM, with care provided in Winter Garden.
If you’re interested in scheduling a meet and greet with Wyatt and his family, please contact our main line at 407-270-5501, and we would be happy to set one up for you!
