The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.
SMJ // Article
Review Article
Florida Health and Health Care: A Status Report
Abstract
Florida was the fastest growing state in the United States in 2024, and it has the third highest state population in 2026. We reviewed health challenges related to rapid population growth, insurance coverage gaps, underinvestment in public health, policy trends, and the high proportion of older adults to assess Florida's health and healthcare system in comparison with national benchmarks. We conducted a comparative analysis using data from the US Census Bureau, the FLHealth Community Health Assessment Resource Tool Set, America's Health Rankings, and the peer-reviewed literature. Key indicators included demographic trends, insurance coverage, public health funding, and health outcomes. Florida has an estimated 2025 population exceeding 23 million- 22.3% adults 65 years of age and older versus 18.2% nationally. Despite favorable metrics in smoking and obesity, Florida ranks 39th in overall state health system performance according to the Commonwealth Fund 2025 Scorecard on State Health System Performance. The state has not expanded Medicaid, and an estimated 315,000 residents are in an insurance coverage gap. Florida's rapid growth and proportion of older people present healthcare challenges. Disparities among uninsured, undocumented, and minority populations are exacerbated by limited insurance access and underfunded public health infrastructures. Declining public health budgets may increase costs from preventable hospitalizations. Given the high dental caries rates and low vaccination rates for Florida in 2025, a law forbidding water fluoridation and efforts to end mandatory vaccinations may exacerbate healthcare disparities. Strategic planning, adequate funding, and policy reform can address these systemic vulnerabilities and ensure equitable access to care in Florida and other southern states.Full Article
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References
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