Behavioral Health

Access to behavioral health care is a challenge for many Floridians, including children, often leading people to seek care in emergency departments. FHA supports policies that ensure patients get the right care at the right time in the right place. Hospitals are working with community groups, state agencies, and health providers to improve access across the state.

SESSION PRIORITES: INCREASING ACCESS TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

The Florida Hospital Association’s legislative priorities focus on increasing access to behavioral health care and addressing critical health care challenges for Floridians.

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MODEL

Florida ranks 43rd in access to care, though 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness annually. The model expands services to improve outcomes and reduce strain.

COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTERS

These centers offer integrated services, with 23 Florida expansion grantees and limited funding. State-certified centers secure Medicaid reimbursement for sustainability.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH WORKFORCE

Florida faces a growing mental health crisis, with a 510:1 patient-to-provider ratio. Rising demand, workforce gaps, high debt, and lack of support severely limit care access and worsen the crisis.

ADDITIONAL COLLATERAL

Collaborative efforts across hospitals, community groups, and advocates aim to ensure Floridians receive timely, appropriate behavioral health care in the right setting.

NALOXINE MYTH VS FACT

Florida sees 21,533 opioid-related ED discharges annually. Naloxone, a life-saving medication, should be offered at no cost to patients and caregivers. Myths around naloxone access and misuse are disproven by research.

Leveraging Federal Medicaid Reimbursement

Florida can access unused federal Medicaid funds by leveraging reimbursement for services in other programs. This approach secures millions in matching funds without expanding eligibility, improving care for 5 million low-income Floridians.

ISSUE BRIEFS

Explore key strategies and solutions to address behavioral health challenges in Florida. These issue briefs highlight opportunities to improve care, access, and support for individuals and communities statewide.

ENGAGING MEDIA

As the largest voice for Florida's hospitals, FHA proactively engages state and national media to ensure consistent and frequent messaging supportive of hospital needs.

Opinion: Advancing Mental Health Care Access for Floridians | Sun Sentinel
Press Release: FHA highlights state's mental health pathways amid rising demand for mental health care during Mental Health Awareness Month
Column: Delivering On the Promise Of A Modern Mental Health Care System In Florida