Released by the Florida Hospital Association …
Statement Below on Behalf of FHA Interim President Crystal Stickle
“On behalf of the more than 200 members of the Florida Hospital Association, including the nurses, physicians and other health care professionals who are caring for our patients, we applaud today’s passage of the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act and appropriation of $75 billion for hospitals. These funds are essential for hospitals and health care providers across our state to continue serving their communities in these extraordinary times. We are particularly grateful for the Florida Congressional delegation’s ongoing work on behalf of our hospitals, health care workers and patients.
For months, hospitals have had to purchase copious amounts of personal protective equipment and other supplies, often at premium pricing; ramp up testing; enhance staffing; and stand up emergency response centers. These required significant financial outlays all at a time when revenues plummeted because of canceled elective procedures and surgeries. Many hospitals have found themselves in dire financial straits yet stalwartly committed to serving their communities and protecting their workforce.
Our state’s hospitals and health care workers have met the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 with dedication, resilience, and selflessness. Stemming the deadly tide of COVID-19 will require continued fortitude and heightened preparedness for the long term. Hospitals cannot do this work alone. Protecting our communities’ health takes a coordinated response and investment, and we gratefully acknowledge Congress’ commitment to this task.”
About the Florida Hospital Association
The Florida Hospital Association comprises over 200 hospitals and health systems from across the state. Through representation and advocacy, education and informational services, we support the mission of our members to provide the highest quality of care to the patients we serve. For more information, visit www.fha.org.