Floridians recently were surprised to learn that last year the number of children uninsured in our state increased for the first time since tracking began a decade ago. According to a recent report released by Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families, the share of Florida children without insurance coverage rose from 6.6 percent to 7.3 percent.

It’s no secret that being able to access affordable, quality health care is critical to maintaining good health and enjoying a prosperous life. In Florida, our community health centers fill the role of providing comprehensive primary and preventive care to every patient, regardless of their ability to pay. And by helping to keep these patients out of hospital emergency rooms, we are able to save the state millions of dollars every year.