The Florida Legislature passed monumental health care legislation and funding this year. With this funding, communities across North Florida will benefit from additional access and infrastructure to meet their needs. The passage of the Living Healthy Act (SB 7016, 7018) is a testament to the commitment of policymakers and health leaders to invest in a healthier, more stable Florida.
We would like to thank the Florida Legislature, especially Senators Clay Yarborough, Tracy Davis, and Jennifer Bradley, and Representatives Paul Renner, Sam Garrison, and Wyman Duggan, for prioritizing the health of Floridians. I would like to express my gratitude. The approved bill introduces a modern approach to promoting medical innovation, strengthening the medical pipeline, and improving access to behavioral health resources.
As stated above, this law will improve access to health care, including:
- $134 million to increase Medicaid reimbursement for mothers and infants
- $10 million in recurring funding for local hospital capital improvement projects
- $50 million annually for Medical Innovation Fund
- Increased funding for health workforce pipeline programs
- Provides $100 million in education funding to teaching hospitals
- $11.5 million for behavioral health services.
- Adds $50 million to Slots for Docs program to increase training capacity
This historic legislation will benefit Jacksonville hospitals that are investing in innovations in cardiovascular care. Our hospital's cardiovascular program has built a robust and active clinical trial infrastructure that provides front-line access to promising new advances in heart failure, stroke prevention, and atrial fibrillation.
letter:TikTok concerns are not unfounded, but US tech innovators can address them
The Nurse Retention Act and funding will allow Ascension St. Vincent University to continue its medical education partnership in Duval County. St. Vincent's established her CNA career technical program with Westside High School. This allows high school seniors to complete clinical rotations with the nursing team, providing valuable learning and professional development to the community. We are also considering partnering with local universities to continue recruiting new nurses.
Historic legislation and health care-focused legislation passed this year strengthens points of care and services provided to the thousands of Floridians who trust Ascension to meet their health needs every day. Strengthen. We're grateful to be part of a community of leaders who put patients first and are better prepared for what's to come.
Scott Cushman, President and CEO of Ascension St. Vincent Riverside. Kevin Links, President and CEO of Ascension St. Vincent Southside.Cory Darling, President and CEO of Ascension St. Vincent, Inc. St. Johns County
This guest column represents the author's opinion and does not necessarily represent the views of the Times Union. We welcome diverse opinions.
