New proposals by Healthy Works Florida and the Florida Chamber of Commerce have reopened discussion about the positive financial benefit of accepting federal Medicaid dollars to cover nearly 1 million low income uninsured in Florida’s healthcare gap. Both business groups are now presenting the case that economic benefits to businesses employing low income insured workers far out weigh the costs Florida will have to pay as its share of the federal program (10% starting in 2020) or $500 million. Two years ago the The Senate passed and Governor Scott supported legislation that cover Florida’s 1 million uninsured, but was not approved by the House as deemed too costly and not encouraging personal responsibility.
The new proposals show that cost savings ($637 million) from eliminating existing state programs (Medically Needy, Mental Health, HIV/AIDS) that now will be covered through individual insurance will more than offset the states’ 10% federal match*. Personal responsibility requirements will have recipients pay a small premium that goes to a health savings account for future use and require unemployed participants to participate in job and education training programs. These features will have to be approved by the federal government. The requirements should encourage unemployed and give them a path to employment by participating in state job programs, but not unfairly remove them from coverage. Meet Juan Comacho who graduated from UCF despite epilepsy attacks and no health insurance.
This is Florida’s third year to cover the healthcare gap for those that need it most. The Central Florida Latino/Haitian business, non-profit, and religious communities understand what continues to be at stake. Their meetings with local legislators, press events, and town halls are making the case that everyone looses if we wait another year.
* Health Florida Works
sunshineadvocacy.com 