FHCA Commends Florida Legislature for Increasing Medicaid Funding to Advance Quality Nursing Center Care

Tallahassee, FL - The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) today commended the Florida Legislature for recognizing that investments in funding to advance quality care will help Florida continue leading the way in meeting the long term health care needs of seniors and people with disabilities.

The state FY 2023-2024 budget approved by lawmakers includes an increase in Medicaid funding for nursing center care in two areas: a $93 million increase to support ongoing quality advancements, and an additional $32 million applied across all care centers. The budget also raises the Medicaid personal needs allowance for nursing center residents from $130 per month to $160 per month.

“We want to thank the entire Legislature, and especially Senate President Passidomo and House Speaker Renner, along with Senators Broxson and Harrell and Representatives Leek and Garrison, for recognizing the measurable advances in quality that are taking place at Florida nursing centers,” said Emmett Reed, FHCA Chief Executive Officer. “With this much-needed funding increase, nursing centers can enhance ongoing quality advancements and bolster their workforce to ensure that our seniors and people with disabilities receive the high-quality, long term care they expect and need.

Florida is already outpacing the nation in the standard of care provided to seniors and people with disabilities, as shown on FHCA's Long Term Care Quality Dashboard. "Our nursing centers are highly committed to improving resident outcomes, and these investments put the focus on the quality of care and quality of life for our state's frail elders,” Reed continued. “With the continued support of the Governor and Legislature, we can ensure that Florida has a stable and sustainable long term care system and remains a leader in delivering high-quality care.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2023

PRESS CONTACT:
Kristen Knapp, APR
850-510-4389 or kknapp@fhca.org