Live healthy: A prescription for a robust health care workforce

We’re all aware that Florida’s population continues to grow rapidly as our state welcomes over 1,000 new residents each day. With this growth comes many challenges, and perhaps the most urgent is the shortage of health care professionals who can meet the needs of this expanding population.

Fortunately, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and other state leaders are determined to do something about it. The Senate has already unanimously approved legislation under the banner of “Live Healthy,” a transformative package that offers a comprehensive solution to this worrisome problem. By removing regulatory barriers and expanding access to care, this set of proposals will chart a path toward a healthier and more prosperous future for Florida.

Once these important measures are enacted into law, Florida will be able to welcome into its health care system experienced physicians who were trained in other countries to help offset our shortage of skilled physicians. Tapping into the talent pool of internationally trained doctors is a necessary and effective move, and by streamlining the process for these qualified professionals to practice here, we can enrich our medical community with diverse expertise and perspectives.

Moreover, the Live Healthy initiative features a game-changer by establishing limited licensure for graduate assistant physicians. This will recognize the valuable contributions these health care practitioners can make, while ensuring that they operate under appropriate supervision. Empowering these individuals to work within a structured framework will accelerate their professional growth and significantly contribute to meeting the health care needs of communities across Florida.

Another important provision will reduce regulations on autonomous nurse midwives. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in maternal care, particularly in underserved areas. By loosening unnecessary constraints, Live Healthy will enable them to practice to the full extent of their expertise, expanding access to quality care for expectant mothers and families across Florida.

The legislation also includes “hospital at home” services in Medicaid, reflecting a clear commitment to innovative health care delivery. This approach not only ensures patient comfort but also potentially reduces health care costs by providing effective care in familiar and supportive environments. It’s a win-win for patients and the health care system alike.

By combining these initiatives and others, the Live Healthy package tackles some of the greatest challenges facing Florida’s health care system, helping to create an environment where health care professionals can thrive and more Floridians can access the care they need and deserve. This isn’t just about policy — it’s about people. It’s about helping a Floridian in need find a skilled physician, a family welcoming a new child getting the support of a skilled nurse midwife, a patient recovering from illness being able to do so in the comfort of their own home, and more.

The Senate’s quick and unanimous approval of this Live Healthy legislation reflects a genuine commitment to unlocking the full potential of Florida’s health care workforce, to ensure that no one is left behind in pursuit of a healthier life. Soon, we hope, all Floridians will be able to see enhancements in access to cost-effective health care and an expansion in innovation in workforce, technology and health care delivery.

FILE Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, covers her heart as she reacts to the imminent passage of Live Local, the affordable housing initiative the Legislature passed in the 2023 session. The legislation was a priority for Passidomo, who in this year’s session is pushing Live Healthy, a package of health care reforms.