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This week, the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA) held its 30th annual Osteopathic Medicine and Health Awareness Day at the Capitol, celebrating the contributions of osteopathic physicians to Florida's healthcare system. The event kicked off with a reception and dinner at Eves on Adams, located on the 17th floor of the DoubleTree Hotel. Attendees enjoyed scenic panoramic views of the city while dining and discussing FOMA's legislative priorities for 2025. 

The following morning, DOs and students participated in several activities and met with legislators from across the state. FOMA extends its gratitude to Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr., and participating legislators for taking the time from their schedule to meet with our members and for their continued support of osteopathic medicine

This year's FOMA Legislator of the Year honorees are Senate President Pro Tempore Jason Brodeur and Representative Allison Tant. Congratulations, and thank you for supporting the FOMA's work on behalf of patients and physicians.  

FOMA President Michael Markou, DO & State CFO Jimmy Patronis 

FOMA President-Elect Bruce Rankin DO, FOMA President Michael Markou DO, State CFO Jimmy Patronis, Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr, and LECOM Osteopathic Medical Student

Legislative Meetings

House Health Care Budget Subcommittee

The House Health Care Budget Subcommittee held a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Panel Discussion, focusing on expanding behavioral health services, youth mental health initiatives, and rural access. Panelists explored telehealth integration, substance abuse treatment improvements, and cost-effective strategies to address service gaps.

House Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee

The House Information Technology Budget and Policy Subcommittee reviewed the Agency for Health Care Administration's efforts to modernize the Florida Medicaid Management Information System (FMMIS) through the Florida Health Care Connections (FX) Program. Key points focused on improving system interoperability, overcoming integration challenges, and utilizing federal financial support. The program will replace outdated systems with a unified platform to enhance Medicaid service delivery and provider coordination.

Senate Committee on Health Policy

The Senate Committee on Health Policy meeting focused on updates from the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and the Department of Health (DOH) on key 2024 health laws. AHCA covered Medicaid improvements, including mobile crisis response services, advanced birth centers, and new funding for provider rate increases. DOH discussed healthcare workforce programs, expanded licensure efforts, the Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) program, and the Training, Education, and Clinicals in Health (TEACH) program. Highlights include:

TEACH Program:

• Launched program resources and stakeholder forums.
• Advanced rulemaking, expected to conclude by autumn 2025.

FRAME Program:

• Engaged stakeholders and public meetings to secure federal approval.
• Federal waiver request set for submission in spring 2025.

House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee

The House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee meeting focused on implementing HB 121, a bill passed in 2024, expanding Florida KidCare eligibility to families with incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level. Presenters from the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and Florida Healthy Kids Corporation discussed new premium tiers, challenges with federal compliance, and ongoing negotiations regarding waiver approval from CMS.

2025 CRT Luncheon

FOMA leaders and members of the Corporate Education Advocacy Roundtable (CRT) met Tuesday, February 4, 2025, to discuss legislation filed for the 2025 Legislative Session. This year’s CRT luncheon was held at Eves on Adams.

The FOMA thanks all who attended. We look forward to your continued partnership as we work on behalf of Florida patients.

FOMA 2025 Legislative Preview

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