In the wake of hurricanes Milton and Helene, health advocates are pressing Florida to seek Medicaid relief. This federal program offers critical disaster flexibilities, allowing quicker enrollment and access to treatment for residents affected by the storms. A coalition of health and labor organizations is calling on state officials to take full advantage of these opportunities to better assist those in need.

The Importance of Medicaid Flexibilities in Florida

Many Floridians are struggling with housing, employment, and health care challenges. Recently, advocates sent a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis and Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Jason Weida, emphasizing the need to apply for available federal emergency flexibilities. Florida has been under a public health emergency since September 23, which permits the state to request waivers that simplify administrative processes for health services.

As financial hardships increase following the hurricanes, some individuals are turning to safety net programs like Medicaid for support. Alison Yager, executive director of the Florida Health Justice Project, noted, “Those who depended on regular healthcare and lost coverage due to job loss or damage to clinics need urgent assistance. Disasters can significantly disrupt access to healthcare in many ways.”

The federal flexibilities being requested would simplify the Medicaid application process, enabling individuals to self-attest to specific eligibility requirements instead of submitting difficult-to-acquire documentation. Furthermore, these measures would broaden the range of health professionals and community organizations allowed to help individuals obtain temporary Medicaid coverage while waiting for final approval.

Florida is already waiving prior authorization requirements for essential Medicaid services. Since October 7, this policy allows patients to access critical care more swiftly without needing pre-approval. However, advocates argue that more steps are necessary.

Organizations like the Florida Health Justice Project and SEIU Florida are urging state leaders to submit a state plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to obtain additional flexibilities for those in need. Yager stressed, “For individuals to rebuild their lives, access to health coverage and services is essential.”

Currently, the Agency for Health Care Administration and the governor's office have not responded to the coalition's letter, although efforts are ongoing.

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