Florida Hospital Association welcomes legislative funding for healthcare access

The Florida Hospital Association (FHA)  is commending state legislators for allocating $49 billion earmarked for healthcare services across the state.

The FHA is giving thumbs up to state lawmakers who included the billions of dollars in the 2026-2027 fiscal budget.

 The organization says the funding will help strengthen the healthcare workforce across the state. The allocations will also help build up healthcare access in rural areas and  bolster medical care for vulnerable families.

“Florida’s healthcare system is evolving. To continue providing outstanding care as the demand for services grows, it’s vital that we invest in our state’s healthcare workforce, rural and maternal health initiatives and safety-net services,” said Mary C. Mayhew, President and CEO of FHA.

FHA officials say there’s a long list of benefits to the state funding for healthcare including:

— Continuing budget authority for the Rural Health Transformation Program, a federally funded program designed to bolster the healthcare workforce, implement modern technologies and establish rural care partnerships.

— Adding $1.7 billion in funds to support projections for Florida’s Medicaid and KidCare programs.

— Funding $38.4 million for the expansion of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) to support healthier aging.

— Creating $15 million in additional funding to implement a tiered reimbursement model for Statewide Inpatient Psychiatric Program services.

— Adding $12 million in funding for Graduate Medical Education to support the state’s physician and healthcare provider pipeline.

— Providing $10 million in additional funding for the Cancer Innovation Program to research life-saving innovations.

— Adding $5 million in funding to support research on Neurofibromatosis Disease.

— An additional $700,000 in funding to establish a Doula Support for Healthy Births Pilot Program, targeting pregnant and postpartum women who have overcome or are overcoming substance use disorders.

“Floridians should have access to timely, high-quality care regardless of where they live or the barriers they may face,” said Mayhew. “These investments strengthen the foundation of Florida’s healthcare system to serve patients and improve health outcomes across Florida communities.”