Quick Answer

Yes, Tampa General Hospital hires individuals with conviction records. However, all employment is highly conditional and subject to Florida's mandatory Level 2 background screening requirements under Chapter 435 and Section 408.809, Florida Statutes. As an AHCA-licensed healthcare facility and academic medical center, TGH must comply with Agency for Health Care Administration regulations requiring fingerprint-based criminal history checks for all employees who have direct or indirect contact with patients.

A conviction for a disqualifying offense results in a finding of "Not Eligible" for employment. Eligibility can only be restored if the individual successfully obtains an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA. This process requires demonstrating rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence and typically cannot be initiated until at least 3 years after completion of all terms of sentencing for felony convictions.

Hourly pay ranges from approximately $15-$17/hr for entry-level positions like Environmental Services and Patient Transport to $35-$60+/hr for clinical roles like Registered Nurses. TGH has been named by Forbes as one of America's Best Employers for Women and among the Top 10 Employers in Florida. The best entry points for applicants with records are non-clinical support roles such as Environmental Services, Food & Nutrition, and Patient Transport, though all positions still require Level 2 background screening.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Background Check Process

7. Hiring Policy Analysis

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• No Permanent Disqualifier: Must NOT be designated as a sexual predator, sexual offender (if required to register), or career offender. These designations permanently bar exemption eligibility.

• Exemption Eligibility (if disqualified): For felony convictions, at least 3 years must have elapsed since completion of all terms of sentencing (incarceration, probation, supervision) before you can apply for an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA.

• Court Financial Clearance: Must have paid all court-ordered fines, restitution, and costs in full for any disqualifying offense before applying for an exemption.

• Complete Disclosure: Must disclose ALL criminal offenses on the application, including those with adjudication withheld or records that are sealed/expunged. The fingerprint check will reveal everything.

• No OIG Exclusion: Must NOT be currently excluded or ineligible for participation in federally funded healthcare programs (Medicare/Medicaid). Check exclusion status at oig.hhs.gov.

• Pass Drug Screen: Must pass a pre-employment drug screening (urine or blood test) as a mandatory condition of employment.

• Employment Eligibility: Must be authorized to work in the United States and able to complete I-9 verification.

Critical Regulatory Information

Employment at Tampa General Hospital is governed by Florida's healthcare facility background screening laws. Understanding these regulations is essential before applying.

Level 2 Background Screening (§ 435.04)

Florida law requires fingerprint-based Level 2 background screening for all employees of AHCA-licensed healthcare facilities. This screening involves submission of fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a comprehensive criminal history check covering your entire criminal history with no lookback period limitation.

All screening results are reviewed by AHCA's Background Screening Unit, which makes eligibility determinations based on Chapter 435 and Section 408.809, Florida Statutes. Processing typically takes 5-7 business days after FDLE receives fingerprints. TGH requires electronic fingerprint submission through an approved Livescan vendor.

Level 2 Disqualifying Offenses

Under Florida Statutes § 435.04(2) and § 408.809, the following categories of offenses result in automatic disqualification from employment in healthcare facilities:

• Sexual offenses of any kind, regardless of victim age

• Crimes against children, elderly, or disabled persons (abuse, neglect, exploitation)

• Murder, manslaughter (including vehicular), and homicide offenses

• Kidnapping, false imprisonment, and human trafficking

• Robbery, burglary, arson, and home invasion robbery

• Aggravated assault and aggravated battery

• Drug trafficking, manufacturing, or delivery of controlled substances

• Theft, fraud, forgery, and exploitation offenses

• Patient abuse or neglect in any healthcare setting

• Any felony involving violence or weapons
  

This list is not exhaustive. Review § 435.04 for the complete statutory list. Importantly, pending charges for disqualifying offenses also result in immediate ineligibility until the case is resolved.

Exemption from Disqualification Process (§ 435.07)

If you have a disqualifying conviction, the only path to employment in a healthcare setting is obtaining an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA. This is a formal administrative process with strict requirements:

• Timing: For felonies, you must wait at least 3 years after completion of all sentencing terms. For misdemeanors, you may apply upon completion of sentencing.

• Burden of Proof: You must demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that you should not be disqualified from employment. This is a high legal standard.

• Documentation Required: Complete Level 2 screening results, all arrest reports and court dispositions (even if sealed/expunged), proof of rehabilitation, character references, employment history, and completion of treatment programs.

• Ineligible for Exemption: Sexual predators, sexual offenders (if required to register), and career offenders can NEVER obtain an exemption.
  

The exemption process can take several months. If denied, you have 21 days to request an administrative hearing under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

Company Overview

Tampa General Hospital (TGH) is a 1,040-bed private, not-for-profit academic medical center located on Davis Islands in Tampa, Florida. Founded in 1927 as Tampa Municipal Hospital, TGH has grown into one of the most comprehensive medical facilities in West Central Florida, serving 12 counties with a population exceeding 4 million people.

TGH is the primary teaching affiliate of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, with over 300 medical residents training in specialties ranging from general internal medicine to neurosurgery. The hospital is the Tampa Bay region's only Level I Trauma Center, one of only two ABA-verified Adult & Pediatric Burn Centers in Florida, and home to one of the nation's leading organ transplant centers, having performed more than 14,000 adult solid organ transplants including Florida's first successful heart transplant in 1985.

With approximately 15,000 team members and providers, TGH is one of the region's largest employers. The TGH system includes the main hospital campus, TGH Brandon Healthplex, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging powered by Tower outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Palm Beach, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.

Fast Facts

Tampa General Hospital is ranked as the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26, with two medical specialties ranking among the top 20 in the nation and eight specialties ranking among the top 50 nationally. Forbes Magazine named TGH among America's Best Employers for Women and a Top-10 Employer in Florida. Additionally, TGH was selected as one of the Top 150 Places to Work in Health Care by Becker's Hospital Review and recognized by Fortune/Merative as one of the 100 Top Hospitals. With five medical helicopters, TGH transports critically injured patients from 23 surrounding counties. The 32-bed Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit is the largest on Florida's west coast, and TGH is a nationally designated comprehensive stroke center. In fiscal year 2023, TGH provided approximately $301.8 million in net community benefit.

Hiring Policy Analysis

Background Check Process

Tampa General Hospital's hiring policies for individuals with criminal records are primarily governed by Florida law rather than internal company discretion. As an AHCA-licensed healthcare facility and academic medical center, TGH must comply with mandatory Level 2 background screening requirements and cannot hire individuals with disqualifying offenses unless they have obtained an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA.

TGH's conditional job offer process includes a Level 2 background screening, occupational health appointment, drug screening, and employment eligibility verification. The hospital has a dedicated Talent Acquisition team that regularly hosts hiring events and works with candidates throughout the process. Employee reviews consistently praise TGH's benefits package, work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.

The hospital explicitly states that falsifying information about criminal history is grounds for immediate disqualification and/or termination if discovered after hire. TGH follows EEOC guidelines to the extent permitted by mandatory Florida healthcare screening laws, but the statutory disqualifications are not subject to employer discretion.

TGH offers partial remote work opportunities for certain positions, with onboarding partially conducted remotely. The organization provides mentorship programs, tailored training schedules, and solicits feedback from new hires at 30 and 90 days to improve the hiring experience.

Position-Specific Barriers

Available Positions and Pay

Career Path Examples

Environmental Services → Patient Transport → Patient Access: Begin in housekeeping where direct patient care is limited. Demonstrate reliability, then transition to patient transport. With experience and training, move to patient access/registration roles with increased responsibility and pay.

Food & Nutrition → Dietary Aide → Nutrition Services: Start in kitchen operations, advance to dietary aide delivering patient meals and interacting with nursing staff, then progress into nutrition services with specialized training opportunities.

Administrative Support → Department Coordinator → Management: Enter through clerical positions, develop expertise in healthcare operations and EPIC systems, advance to coordinator roles, and eventually supervisory or management positions.

Patient Care Tech → Certification → Clinical Advancement: For those eligible for clinical roles, start as PCT, obtain CNA certification through training programs, potentially advance to LPN or RN through educational benefits and tuition assistance.

TGH Medical Group Path: With 50+ locations throughout Tampa Bay, TGH Medical Group hires medical assistants, customer service representatives, and front desk staff. These outpatient settings may offer additional entry points.

Note: Career advancement in clinical roles requires maintaining eligibility under Level 2 screening. Any new arrest for a disqualifying offense results in immediate removal from patient contact pending resolution.

Background Check Process

1. Submit online application through tgh.org/careers or apply in person at People & Talent office (Main Campus, East Pavilion G105A).
   

2. Complete interview(s)—may occur same day or over several days depending on position.
   

3. Receive conditional job offer pending background check and occupational health clearance.
   

4. Complete Level 2 background screening authorization.
   

5. Submit electronic fingerprints at approved Livescan vendor.
   

6. Fingerprints transmitted to FDLE and FBI for criminal history check.
   

7. AHCA Background Screening Unit reviews results (5-7 business days after FDLE receives prints).
   

8. AHCA issues eligibility determination (Eligible or Not Eligible).
   

9. If Not Eligible: must apply for Exemption from Disqualification before employment can proceed.
   

10. Complete pre-employment drug screening.
    

11. Complete employment eligibility verification (I-9).
    

12. Complete occupational health appointment.
    

13. If all screenings cleared, complete onboarding (partially remote) and new hire orientation.
    

TGH aims to provide applicants with an answer within approximately two weeks. Those requiring exemptions should expect a process of several months.

Disqualifying Factors

Permanent Disqualifiers (No Exemption Possible):

• Designation as a sexual predator under § 775.21

• Designation as a sexual offender (if required to register) under § 943.0435

• Designation as a career offender under § 775.261

Automatic Disqualifiers (Exemption May Be Possible After 3-Year Waiting Period):

• All Level 2 disqualifying offenses under § 435.04(2)

• Crimes against children, elderly, or disabled persons

• Sexual offenses of any kind

• Murder, manslaughter, homicide offenses

• Drug trafficking or manufacturing

• Robbery, burglary, arson

• Fraud, theft, exploitation (especially in healthcare settings)

TGH-Specific Disqualifiers:

• Falsification of application or criminal history disclosure

• OIG exclusion from federal healthcare programs

• Failed drug screening

• Inability to verify employment eligibility

Your Rights as an Applicant

Under federal and Florida law, you have important protections during the hiring and screening process:

• FCRA Rights: You must receive written notice before a background check, provide written consent, and receive copies of reports if adverse action is taken.

• Dispute Rights: You may dispute inaccurate information in your background check with FDLE or FBI and request corrections.

• Pre-Adverse Action: You must receive notice before final adverse action and opportunity to explain or dispute findings.

• Exemption Right: If disqualified under Level 2 screening, you have the right to apply for an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA.

• Appeal Rights: If exemption is denied, you have 21 days to request an administrative hearing under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.

• Confidentiality: Level 2 screening records are confidential and may only be shared with you, not disclosed to unauthorized parties.
  

Note: While EEOC individualized assessment guidelines apply generally, the mandatory nature of Level 2 disqualifications means TGH has limited discretion for positions covered by healthcare screening laws. The AHCA exemption process is the primary avenue for individualized consideration.

Application Strategy

1. Determine Eligibility Status First: Before applying, identify if your conviction is a disqualifying offense under Florida Statute § 435.04. If disqualified, determine whether you are eligible to apply for an exemption (3 years post-sentencing for felonies).
   

2. Check OIG Exclusion Status: Visit oig.hhs.gov/exclusions to verify you are not excluded from federal healthcare programs. OIG exclusion is an automatic bar.
   

3. Obtain Your Criminal Records: Request your Florida criminal history from FDLE and federal records from FBI. Review for accuracy and identify any errors to dispute before applying.
   

4. Prepare for Fingerprinting: The Level 2 check requires electronic fingerprint submission through an approved Livescan vendor. Locate vendors in advance and budget for the screening fee.
   

5. Gather Rehabilitation Documentation (for Exemption): Compile employment history, education certificates, character references, community service documentation, treatment program completions, and any other evidence of rehabilitation.
   

6. Apply for Exemption (if needed): If you have a disqualifying conviction and meet the timing requirements, apply for an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA before applying to TGH.
   

7. Target Appropriate Positions: Focus on non-clinical support roles initially. Environmental Services, Food & Nutrition, Patient Transport, and Greeter positions may be more accessible entry points.
   

8. Do Not Lie: TGH performs thorough background checks and employment verification. Falsifying information is grounds for immediate disqualification and/or termination. Complete honesty is required.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Start the AHCA exemption process early—it can take several months, and you cannot be hired without an eligibility determination.
   

2. Complete honesty is absolutely critical: the fingerprint-based Level 2 check will reveal your complete criminal history, and falsification is grounds for immediate termination.
   

3. Attend TGH hiring events—the Talent Acquisition team regularly hosts in-person and virtual events that provide direct access to recruiters.
   

4. Consider applying in person at the People & Talent office on TGH Main Campus if you need assistance with the online application.
   

5. TGH offers tuition assistance and professional development—document your commitment to continued education as evidence of rehabilitation.
   

6. The hospital values its culture and core values (integrity, compassion, accountability, excellence, courage)—be prepared to discuss how you align with these.
   

7. Explore TGH Medical Group positions at the 50+ outpatient locations throughout Tampa Bay for additional opportunities.
   

8. Consider InterHealth Medical Staffing Solutions (TGH's staffing division) for contract positions that may offer different entry points.
   

9. Be patient with the process: TGH's comprehensive screening ensures patient safety, and thorough vetting benefits everyone in the long run.

Benefits Overview

Tampa General Hospital offers a comprehensive benefits package known as Team Member Total Rewards, described as "the richest in the region":

• Medical Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida plans with options for both local and out-of-area team members. TGH Medical Group clinics available for convenient in-network care.

• Dental & Vision: MetLife dental insurance and vision coverage.

• Retirement: 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Accrued Time Off (ATO) system. Employees report receiving 21-30 days of PTO annually.

• Education: Tuition assistance and certification reimbursement programs. Professional development and career growth opportunities.

• Life/Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance, dependent life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Supplemental Benefits: Accident insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, identity theft protection, and pet insurance options.

• Wellness Programs: Comprehensive wellness initiatives and employee health resources.

• Additional Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), on-site pharmacy with extended hours, payroll deduction for ER copays, employee assistance programs.

Benefits eligibility begins after 60 days for team members working at least 16 hours per week.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Tampa General Hospital hire people with felonies?

   Tampa General Hospital can hire individuals with felony convictions, but only if they are eligible under Florida's Level 2 background screening requirements. This means either: (1) the felony is not a disqualifying offense under § 435.04, or (2) the individual has successfully obtained an Exemption from Disqualification from AHCA. The exemption process requires a 3-year waiting period after completion of sentencing and demonstration of rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence.
   

2. What is the background check process at Tampa General Hospital?

   TGH uses Level 2 background screening as required by Florida law for healthcare facilities. After receiving a conditional job offer, you must submit electronic fingerprints at an approved Livescan vendor. Fingerprints are sent to FDLE and FBI for a comprehensive criminal history check. AHCA's Background Screening Unit reviews results and issues an eligibility determination. The process takes approximately 5-7 business days for fingerprint processing plus AHCA review time.
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Tampa General Hospital—what is the lookback period?

   Level 2 screening has no lookback limitation—your entire criminal history is reviewed regardless of when offenses occurred. All convictions, including those with adjudication withheld or sealed/expunged records, are considered. This differs significantly from standard 7-year employment background checks used in other industries.
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Tampa General Hospital?

   The most difficult convictions include: sexual offenses, crimes against children/elderly/disabled, murder and manslaughter, drug trafficking, robbery/burglary/arson, fraud and theft (especially in healthcare settings), and any crimes involving violence. Sexual predators, registered sexual offenders, and career offenders can never obtain exemptions and are permanently barred from healthcare employment.
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Tampa General Hospital for applicants with a record?

   The best entry points are non-clinical support roles such as Environmental Services (housekeeping), Food & Nutrition/Kitchen, Patient Transport, Mobility Aide, and Greeter positions. These roles have limited direct patient care responsibilities while still requiring Level 2 screening. They provide opportunities to build a track record and potentially advance within the organization.
   

6. Does Tampa General Hospital drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, TGH requires pre-employment drug screening for all positions. The typical screening is a urine or blood test. Drug testing is mandatory and failure to pass results in disqualification from employment.
   

7. When during the hiring process will Tampa General Hospital ask about criminal history?

   Criminal history questions may appear on the application. The comprehensive Level 2 background screening occurs after a conditional job offer is extended. You must disclose all criminal history completely—the fingerprint check will reveal everything, and falsification is grounds for immediate disqualification and/or termination.
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Tampa General Hospital if they have a felony?

   Advancement is possible if you maintain eligibility under Level 2 screening requirements. Those who have obtained exemptions and demonstrated continued rehabilitation can advance through the organization. However, any new arrest for a disqualifying offense will result in immediate removal from patient contact and potential termination.
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take?

   TGH aims to provide applicants with an answer within approximately two weeks for the standard process. Level 2 screening takes 5-7 business days for FDLE processing plus AHCA review time. For those requiring an Exemption from Disqualification, the process can take several months as AHCA reviews rehabilitation evidence and makes a determination.
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Tampa General Hospital?

    Obtain and review your criminal records for accuracy before applying. If you have disqualifying convictions, apply for an Exemption from AHCA before applying to TGH. Be completely honest on all applications—falsification is automatic disqualification. Target non-clinical support roles initially. Attend TGH hiring events to connect directly with recruiters. Document rehabilitation thoroughly. Research TGH's core values (integrity, compassion, accountability, excellence, courage) and be prepared to discuss how you align with them.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

Conclusion

Tampa General Hospital is an exceptional employer—ranked #1 in Tampa Bay, recognized by Forbes as a top employer, and offering one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the region. As an academic medical center and Level I Trauma Center, TGH provides meaningful opportunities to contribute to world-class patient care.

However, the regulatory environment governing healthcare facilities in Florida creates significant barriers for individuals with certain criminal histories. The Level 2 background screening requirement is mandatory and covers your entire criminal history with no lookback limitations. Understanding these requirements and the Exemption from Disqualification process is essential before applying.

For those who are eligible or who successfully obtain exemptions, TGH offers genuine career opportunities with competitive pay, excellent benefits, professional development, and a culture that values its team members. The organization's commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in its numerous workplace awards and recognition.

Be completely honest throughout the application process—falsification is automatic disqualification. Target appropriate entry-level positions, particularly in Environmental Services, Food & Nutrition, and Patient Transport. Attend TGH hiring events to connect directly with recruiters. And be patient: the comprehensive screening process ensures patient safety and ultimately benefits everyone.

If healthcare employment proves too challenging due to screening requirements, consider the alternative employers listed above. Many industries do not have the same regulatory mandates as healthcare, offering more accessible paths to employment while you work toward exemption eligibility if healthcare remains your goal.

Disclaimer

This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Florida healthcare screening laws, AHCA regulations, and employer policies may change without notice. Information presented here is based on publicly available sources and may not reflect current requirements. Always verify information directly with Tampa General Hospital, AHCA, and review current Florida Statutes before making employment decisions. Individuals with criminal records should consult with a qualified healthcare law attorney regarding their specific circumstances, exemption eligibility, and the exemption application process.

Apply Now

Website: tgh.org/careers

In-Person Applications: People & Talent Office, TGH Main Campus, East Pavilion (G105A)

Address: 1 Tampa General Circle, Tampa, FL 33606

AHCA Background Screening: ahca.myflorida.com/health-quality-assurance/bureau-of-central-services/background-screening

OIG Exclusion Check: oig.hhs.gov/exclusions

FDLE Criminal History: fdle.state.fl.us