Hospital revenue divide: Florida’s ranks #1 per capita

Florida's 222 non-federal acute care hospitals collectively generated a jaw-dropping $532.3 billion in patient revenue, translating to $22,776.55 per capita—the highest in the country. That figure dwarfs every other state, and despite having fewer hospitals than California, Florida’s per capita revenue places it firmly at the top. This high revenue doesn’t necessarily reflect better outcomes or more access. According to healthcare experts, it may indicate higher service utilization, more complex billing practices, or rising costs of care in the Sunshine State. More from Calle Ocho News and Newsweek.

Ladapo's targeting of Florida vaccine requirements gets bipartisan opposition

Doctors, medical experts and politicians on both sides of the aisle are pushing back on a plan from Gov. Ron DeSantis and state Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo to end all vaccine requirements in the state. Florida law mandates immunizations for kids attending public school, including shots that protect against measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and chickenpox. But Ladapo said this past week he's against rules that require anyone to put anything in their bodies. [Source: Health News Florida]

See also:
» Florida’s vaccine overhaul is a big deal. Here’s what you need to know.

Column: Florida’s economic success needs private marketplace health insurance

Having a health insurance card in your wallet matters. Thanks to the federal marketplace and premium assistance, 4.7 million Floridians have that card and the access to timely healthcare it facilitates. This access to coverage means the difference between regular visits with a primary care physician and being uninsured, relying on the emergency department as your primary care doctor. [Source: Tampa Bay Times]

Florida researchers aim to improve nutrition for cancer patients

A new study and first-of-its-kind food pharmacy at UF aim to help patients with cancer access and eat nutritious foods, giving them the best possible shot at a healthy future. As many as a third of cancer patients face food challenges, particularly in rural areas. Good nutrition can improve outcomes during and after treatment. [Source: UF News]

Experts warn of ketamine as deaths climb in Florida

Medical examiners have seen an increase in ketamine-involved deaths in Florida this year. While safe when used in a clinical setting, ketamine is also used illicitly and sometimes mixed with other drugs. This year's numbers follow a national increase of ketamine deaths over the past couple of years. Up until 2017, ketamine was identified in fewer than 10 cases per year. In 2023, there were 68 cases. [Source: Tallahasseee Democrat]

ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:

› The Villages Health gets ready to sell, but insurance companies are concerned [Central Florida Public Media]
The Villages Health System is up for sale this week after previously filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy over the summer. However, the sale has been met with several objections from insurance companies that have accused TVH of defrauding Medicare. In July, TVH filed for bankruptcy. According to its website, the company has 55,000 patients and operates eight primary care centers and two specialty care centers. Court documents show Centerwell, a company owned by the insurer Huamana, is expected to purchase TVH. It placed a bid of $50 million, the minimum price offer for an auction.

› Support groups expand mental health access in Brevard County [Florida Today]
Across Brevard County — in church halls and counseling centers, online and even at the beach— whether you're battling anxiety, navigating grief, rebuilding after addiction, or just trying to cope with the weight of everyday life, there's a support group for you. Led by peers, therapists, or those who’ve walked the same path, these support circles offer more than advice — they offer understanding and community. And unlike traditional one-on-one therapy, many support groups are available for free or just modest fees, making them an affordable option for people seeking help and connection.

› Future nurses to gain real-world experience through IRSC and HCA Florida partnership [Lake Okeechobee News]
Indian River State College School of Nursing has expanded its groundbreaking partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals to include HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital and HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital to create Dedicated Education Hospitals (DEH), a transformative collaboration on the Treasure Coast. This expansion strengthens Indian River State College’s partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals, providing enhanced student training, a stronger nursing workforce, and better care for the community.

› Free health screenings available at Pensacola medical park [WKRG]
Baptist Medical Park in Pensacola is set to hold a Community Health Improvement Tour, hosted by Baptist Health Care, Florida Blue, Northwest Florida Health Council, and Achieve Healthy EscaRosa. According to a release from Baptist Health Care, the event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Baptist Medical Park, located at 9400 University Parkway, in the Azalea Room. Members of the public will have “an opportunity to learn about healthy habits, address health risk factors, and take proactive steps in one’s wellness journey,” the release said.

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