What Florida Statute governs the Department of Health?

The correct answer is grounded in the fact that Florida Statute 456 is specifically designated to govern the Department of Health's regulatory framework. This statute outlines the general regulations applicable to health professions, including provisions related to licensure, practice standards, and disciplinary actions.

Florida Statute 456 serves as a foundation for various professional regulations in the health care field, thereby encapsulating broad principles that impact a range of health professions. This includes guidelines for the licensing process, responsibilities of health care providers, and the regulatory authority of the Department of Health in overseeing these professions.

The other statutes listed pertain to specific fields within health care. For instance, Statute 457 pertains to the practice of mental health counseling, Statute 465 covers pharmacy regulations, and Statute 466 specifically addresses dental practices. Each of these statutes has a focused scope, while Statute 456 encompasses a broader regulatory framework that supports the operations of the Department of Health overall. This is critical for understanding the jurisdiction and regulatory responsibilities that the Department holds in overseeing various health care professions, including dentistry and dental hygiene.