In 2020, Florida sacrificed potentially disabled people in the census, potentially two Congress seats, resulting in losses of federal funds ranging from $11 billion to $21 billion by the end of the decade. Tax watch.
“Census undercounts affect the entire state, but the results felt in the healthcare industry are some of the most serious. Dominique M. Calabro, president and CEO of Florida Taxwatch. states:
Healthcare providers use census data to identify areas of increased demand. Amidst the shortage, the projected population can be larger than expected, resulting in new structures that cannot accommodate expensive expansion or growth. Service gaps can arise, especially when certain groups are not properly identified, such as older women and elderly populations.
Of all federal programs, TaxWatch says Medicaid is the most vulnerable to census undercounts. Medicaid matching dollars are set at rates based on the number of populations. The program does not have a funding cap, which could result in a more favorable rate being returned to the state. As the most expensive program in the state budget, the smallest inconsistency in the number of census could cost Florida taxpayers millions.
The estimated loss for Medicaid dollars is $2.3 billion, which is just a corner of the spear. Other health-related programs are also affected, but without socioeconomic data it is difficult to fully estimate.
“We look forward to the 2030 census, so Florida is committed to a full and accurate number of all people living in Florida,” said Jeff Cotkamp, executive vice president and general counsel at Florida Taxwatch. It is important to maintain effective service delivery. Accurate statewide counts ensure a suitable share for federal funding and compile accurate data to plan Florida’s health care needs. It’s important for that.”
