Dear Friends:

Our friends in the federal government fund a significant percentage of our Medicaid program, and this week I went to Washington to learn how we can strengthen our partnership with our Congressional delegation.

Hat in hand, I joined Kristi Craig from our Washington office as we walked the halls from the Hart Senate Office Building to the Longworth House Office Building, visiting key members of our delegation and talking about the opportunities and challenges for Florida.  Our delegation is led by Congressman Alcee Hastings (D) and by Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R), and members from both parties have been valuable allies in helping us address regulatory and especially funding issues.

After two days of lobbying, I joined business leaders from across the state for the Council of 100 meeting.  We heard from great speakers like Ambassador Susan Schwab, the United States Trade Representative, about the importance of Florida’s trade relationships; Secretary Margaret Spellings of the U.S. Department of Education about Florida’s continued progress in developing a world class education system; and former Speaker Newt Gingrich about the challenges of leadership in the modern world.

But during the breaks, I heard from the members of the Council of 100 about the need for affordable health care for their employees.  Health care continues to consume an ever-increasing portion of their bottom line, and they are eager to find solutions.  They are eagerly awaiting our progress on implementing the legislation addressing the uninsured that passed this spring.

Back at the home front, we celebrated Public Service Recognition Week.  We began by presenting Years of Service Awards, and I was amazed by the number of people who have committed their lives to public service.  The depth of the commitment at AHCA and the passion of our team continue to awe me.

As always, it is an honor to serve you.

Sincerely,