Data Collection (Florida Hospital Uniform Reporting System)

Review of Actual Reports

Hospital financial data and utilization statistics are reported using a uniform chart of accounts known as the Florida Hospital Uniform Reporting System. The American Hospital Association Chart of Accounts provides the framework for departmental revenues, expenses, hospital gains, losses, and deductions from revenue. Revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities and net assets are reported, in most instances, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. An example of a significant departure from GAAP is found in the reporting of bad debts. Under GAAP, bad debts are classified as an operating expense. In accordance with FHURS, bad debts are reported as a deduction from revenue. The FHURS report has been incorporated by reference into the Florida Administrative Code as Rule 59E-5.102.

Within 120 days subsequent to the end of the fiscal year, hospitals are required to file their actual financial experience. (Section 408.061 F.S). The actual experience is defined as a prior year report in Rule 59E-5.101(21) F.A.C. The prior year report must be prepared from hospital financial data audited by a Florida licensed Certified Public Accountant using generally accepted auditing standards and accounting principals, (Rule 59E-5.201 F.A.C.). The auditor's report must contain an opinion. An audit report containing a disclaimer of opinion disqualifies the acceptance process (Section 408.07(1), (8) F.S.) & Rule 59E-5.101(21) F.A.C. Any differences between the FHURS report and the audited financial statements must be reconciled and/or explained. The applicable Medicare Cost Report is required to be filed with the FHURS report.

The Agency has 90 days to conduct an initial review of the prior year report (59E-5.204 F.A.C.). The report is reviewed to determine whether it is complete, conforming, and verified ( 59E-5.205 F.A.C.). The report is deemed complete if all forms, documentation and the auditor's report, with an opinion, have been received. The report is deemed conforming if it has been prepared in accordance with the FHURS requirements and GAAP. The report is deemed verified when the financial data are mathematically accurate, reasonable and supported.