Frequently Asked Questions About PPEC: The Complete Guide for Florida Families

If you are exploring Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care for the first time, you have questions. A lot of them. We have spent years helping families across Miami-Dade and South Broward County navigate this decision, and below is the most complete, plain-language FAQ we have published. If your question is not answered here, call us at (305) 342-2481 — we are happy to talk.

For more about our facility specifically, visit our PPEC services page or contact us.

What is a PPEC?

A PPEC — Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care — is a Florida-licensed, AHCA-regulated medical facility that provides skilled nursing, physician-ordered therapies, and developmental support for medically complex children. It is a medical facility, not a daycare. Read our full guide to PPEC.

Is PPEC the same thing as medical daycare?

People often use the term "medical daycare" informally. The formal Florida term is PPEC. The two phrases generally refer to the same kind of facility, but PPEC is the licensed category.

How is PPEC different from regular daycare?

A regular daycare is licensed by DCF for non-medical childcare. A PPEC is licensed by AHCA as a medical facility. Daycares are not staffed or equipped to manage tracheostomies, ventilators, feeding tubes, complex medication regimens, or active seizure disorders. PPECs are. See our PPEC vs. daycare comparison.

Who qualifies for PPEC at Blessed Pediatric Care?

Children from birth through age 21 who are medically complex or technology-dependent, require a skilled nursing level of care, have a physician order for PPEC, and are enrolled in or eligible for Florida Medicaid. See our eligibility step-by-step guide.

What conditions do you serve?

We routinely serve children with tracheostomies, ventilator dependence, G-tube or J-tube feeding, seizure disorders, cardiac conditions, pulmonary conditions, genetic and metabolic disorders, cerebral palsy, NICU graduates with ongoing complexity, and many other conditions requiring skilled nursing.

How is PPEC paid for?

For most families, Florida Medicaid covers PPEC services in full, including nursing, therapy, meals, and transportation. There is no out-of-pocket cost for eligible families.

What if my child is not currently on Medicaid?

Many medically complex children qualify for Medicaid based on their disability or medical condition. Our intake team can help you understand the pathways available in Florida and connect you with application resources.

Do I need a physician referral to call?

No. Parents can contact us directly. We will then coordinate with your child's physician to obtain the PPEC order.

What if my child does not have a regular doctor?

We can suggest community resources that help families establish a medical home. A primary care provider is necessary for the physician order.

How long does enrollment take?

Typically one to three weeks from first call to first day, depending on physician turnaround and Medicaid authorization speed.

What ages do you serve?

Birth through age 21.

What hours are you open?

Monday through Friday. Children may attend up to 12 hours per day based on their plan of care.

Are you open on weekends?

Standard PPEC operations run Monday through Friday.

What is included in a typical day at Blessed Pediatric Care?

Arrival and nursing assessment, medication administration, scheduled clinical interventions, PT/OT/Speech/behavioral therapy as ordered, meals, developmental activities, rest, and continuous monitoring.

How many children attend?

Daily census varies. AHCA regulates capacity and nursing ratios. Our facility is sized appropriately for safe, individualized care.

What is the nurse-to-child ratio?

Ratios meet or exceed AHCA requirements and are adjusted based on the acuity of children present that day.

What therapies are offered?

Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and Behavioral Support, all on-site, all delivered by licensed clinicians, all integrated into the plan of care.

Do you provide transportation?

Yes. Door-to-door transportation across Northern Miami-Dade and South Broward County.

Which cities do you serve for transportation?

Miami Gardens, North Miami, North Miami Beach, Opa-Locka, Hialeah, Aventura, Miami Lakes, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Hallandale Beach, Southwest Ranches, Cooper City, and nearby communities. Call us if your address is borderline — we often accommodate.

How safe is the transportation?

Our vehicles are equipped for medically complex children, our drivers are trained in pediatric safety, and our dispatch maintains communication with the facility throughout each route.

Will my child receive meals?

Yes. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided, including support for specialized feeding plans, allergies, and tube feeding.

Can my child still go to school?

PPEC complements education. We provide developmental and education programming on-site; for school-age children, families and the medical team can coordinate scheduling.

Will my child still see their pediatrician and specialists?

Absolutely. PPEC does not replace your child's medical home. We work alongside their existing care providers.

Can my child receive home health nursing in addition to PPEC?

This varies by plan and authorization. Some families combine both; others transition. Your case manager and our intake team can advise.

Can I visit during the day?

Parents are welcome. We encourage tours and family involvement at any time.

What happens in a medical emergency?

We have trained clinical staff on-site, emergency protocols established by AHCA standards, and immediate access to emergency services. We notify parents and treating physicians of any significant event.

How do you handle infection control?

We follow strict infection-control protocols consistent with pediatric medical facility standards.

What languages does your team speak?

We serve families in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole.

How do I tour the facility?

Call (305) 342-2481 or request a tour online. Tours are free.

How do I refer a patient as a provider?

Visit our physician referral page or call us directly.

What if I just want more information without committing?

That is exactly how most families start. There is no commitment, no cost to talk, and no pressure. We are happy to answer questions on the phone.

Ready to Talk?

Call (305) 342-2481 or schedule a tour. For physician referrals, visit our referrals page.