Our Mission

Improving health care access and outcomes for low income Floridians .

Why We're Here

Accessing  healthcare--a key social determinant of health--can be difficult for low income Floridians,  the health challenges facing Florida are profound, and there's a need for new cross-sector strategies.​

Our Strategy

We explain how local, state and federal policies impact health outcomes for vulnerable populations, and we collaborate on solutions addressing Florida's profound health challenges.
Our advocacy includes short issue briefs,  comment letters, and litigation.

Education

We provide advocates and stakeholders with resource materials and trainings on programs and policies impacting health outcomes.

Technical Assistance & Support

We provide technical assistance and support for advocates on Florida’s complex health care programs, and help advocates  develop the substantive knowledge and skill set needed to identify and address barriers to care and improve health care outcomes.

About Florida Health Justice Project (FHJP)

FHJP provides nonpartisan policy analysis and systemic advocacy helping to ensure access to health care and improve health outcomes. We have expertise in health law, political science, public health, data analysis, nursing, and environmental advocacy.

In addressing Florida's health challenges--from the state's lack of Medicaid expansion to the impact of climate change on health--we work with state, local and national partners in promoting viable solutions.​

Publications & News

Vulnerable Populations

Proposed Changes in Healthcare Nondiscrimination Protections Hurt Floridians

On June 14, 2019, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officially published proposed changes to the nondiscrimination regulations under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The announcement triggered a 60-day public comment period. Section 1557, the nondiscrimination provision of the ACA, expands long-standing federal civil rights protections to certain healthcare programs and activities.
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Medicaid Expansion

Florida Medicaid Expansion Update

Florida is one of only 14 states that have not expanded Medicaid.  As a result, approximately 445,000 Floridians fall into the “Coverage Gap,” meaning they have no path to affordable coverage.

Until Florida expands Medicaid, policy makers and the public must hear from uninsured residents about the suffering and loss that comes with lacking health coverage.  The Florida Health Justice Project is working with impacted individuals, advocates and health care providers to help bring these stories to light through our Florida Health Justice STORIES initiative.
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Florida LGBT Health Care: Specific Challenges and Potential Impact of Medicaid Expansion

The LGBT population encompasses a highly diverse group of individuals that present unique healthcare challenges and barriers. Florida’s distinct demographics add further complexity to these challenges. This brief summarizes LGBT healthcare issues, highlights those challenges unique to Florida, and finally, suggests how expansion of Medicaid in Florida will benefit LGBT individuals in the state.
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Elder Health Challenges

Repeal of Retroactive Medicaid Eligibility

In 2018, Florida received approval from the federal government to “waive” the Retroactive Medicaid Eligibility (RME) section of the Medicaid statute for non-pregnant adults over 21 and to limit coverage to one month. This elimination of RME is hurting low-income frail and disabled Floridians and critical safety net health care providers.  Read more

Adding an Oral Health Benefit to Medicare

When the Medicare Program was created in 1965, the major connection between oral health and overall wellness was not as well understood, and the Program excluded coverage of medically necessary dental care. While the connection between oral health and overall health outcomes is now proven, many people who rely on Medicare have limited access, or no access, to dental care.  Read more