Rick Scott Showcases Graduate Medical Education Funding

On Wednesday, Gov. Rick Scott showcased the $80 million in his budget for graduate medical education, including $13 million to Tampa Bay hospitals to support internship programs.

?In order to grow more opportunities for Florida families to succeed, we must invest in programs that will diversify our economy and create jobs for future generations, Scott said. That'?s why my Florida Families First budget invested $80 million for graduate medical education programs, which helps hospitals expand their residency programs. In the Tampa Bay area alone, this program will invest $13 million to expand residency programs in 10 hospitals, which is great news. This program is the first of its kind to coordinate with hospitals on supporting their medical education programs and will ensure we keep more of our medical school graduates here in the Sunshine State.

Two leaders in the Legislature chimed in to support investing in graduate medical education to ensure more doctors set up practices in the Sunshine State.

?Many doctors who participate in residency programs in Florida end up practicing in our state, said Sen. Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring. It is important, particularly in rural areas, that there are enough physicians to meet the future needs of our aging population. I am pleased that we were able to make an investment in the health of Floridians by creating the statewide residency program."?

The move this year to DRG reimbursement for hospital inpatient stays in the Medicaid program created the perfect opportunity to begin the statewide residency program, said Rep, Matt Hudson, R-Naples. The new program will provide more transparency and accountability for graduate medical education funding, and ultimately deliver a greater value to the taxpayers of Florida."