FHCA Commends Senate and House Leadership for Budget Proposals that Invest in Nursing Center Quality Care

Tallahassee, Fla. - The Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives released their 2023-2024 initial budget recommendations, both of which included an increase to Medicaid funding for nursing center care.The Senate budget proposal includes a 4% increase to the quality component in the Prospective Payment System (PPS) for nursing center Medicaid reimbursement. The Senate also raises the Medicaid personal needs allowance from $130/month to $160/month for nursing center residents. The House proposal includes a 3% increase in the PPS quality component. Florida Health Care Association issued a statement thanking Senate and House leaders for understanding the need to invest in the quality care being delivered in our state’s nursing centers. 

“FHCA appreciates our legislative leaders for recognizing the need to invest in the quality care being delivered in our state's nursing centers,” said Emmett Reed, FHCA Chief Executive Officer. “Funding increases in both the Senate and House budget proposals will support advancements in quality and the caregivers who provide it directly to those in need.” Florida is already demonstrating itself as a leader in the standard of care provided to our seniors and people with disabilities. FHCA's Quality Dashboard highlights how our nursing centers are focused on improving resident outcomes, which is helping Florida outpace the nation in key measures:

• Florida ranks in the top 15 states with facilities holding a 4- and 5-star Quality Measures in ratings from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with over 71% of nursing centers achieving this level of star rating.
• Florida is a top 10 state in residents who have increased their independence, as reflected in their ability to complete activities of daily living and in reducing falls.
• 75% of Florida’s nursing centers have received national recognition for providing quality care (AHCA/NCAL Baldrige-based National Quality Award or Joint Commission accreditation).

“We want to thank Senate President Passidomo and House Speaker Renner, along with Senators Broxson and Harrell and Representatives Leek and Garrison, for increasing the funding that our nursing centers need to continue making improvements in quality,” Reed added. “As both chambers move forward with their budgeting process, we will continue explaining to lawmakers how these investments are critical and will help lead to better care and resident outcomes.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2023

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