LeadingAge Florida, Florida’s only association representing the entire continuum of care for older adults, issued a statement following the release of the approved budget by lawmakers. The final budget includes increases for Medicaid nursing homes totaling $125 million in recurring funds. These funds are earmarked for a one percent across the board rate increase and an increase to the Quality Incentive Program Payment Pool.
LeadingAge Florida applauded the Legislature’s decision to direct funding to recognizing high quality nursing homes and providing inflationary increases that recognize the continuing growth in costs faced by nursing home providers.
The following statement is attributable to President and CEO Steve Bahmer.
“We are grateful to Senate President Passidomo, House Speaker Renner and the entire Legislature for their continued commitment and focus on nursing home funding, particularly with a focus on quality. Florida’s nursing homes offer among the best long-term care in the nation, and that care continues to improve because of our long-term care professionals. The allocation of this funding reinforces that the people caring for our nursing home residents are the most significant factor in the quality of care. We know the legislature is faced with a number of difficult decisions when finalizing the budget and we are grateful for their continued support.”
For 60 years, LeadingAge Florida has been the state’s leading advocate for high-quality senior living, aging services and care. We are the only statewide association representing the full continuum of care for seniors. The Association provides up-to-date regulatory information, a wide variety of educational opportunities, representation before the Legislature and government agencies, group purchasing services, and opportunities for networking with peers to help member communities best serve the needs of Florida’s senior population.
