Fernandina Beach, FL—Barnabas Center Inc. announced a change to its eligibility requirements for health care services effective Sept. 25, 2024. Barnabas Center and Baptist Medical Center Nassau will enhance their service to Nassau County residents by expanding their intake process to include a broader population of residents.
Florida recently passed the important “Live Healthy” (SB 7016) initiative legislation. This bill revised preexisting health care programs, created new programs, revised licensure and regulatory requirements for health care practitioners and facilities, created new provisions within programs relating to health care practitioner education, amended the state Medicaid program, and appropriated both general revenue and trust fund dollars to grow Florida’s health care workforce and increase access to health care services.
The bill amends the “Access to Health Care Act” to increase the maximum income at which a patient can be considered low-income from 200 percent to 300 percent of the federal poverty level.
Jamie Reynolds, President/CEO of Barnabas Center, looks forward to serving more Nassau County residents. “Health care is so important for the overall well-being of our residents. Barnabas Center’s ability to add more patients to the schedule will assist clients, including those classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), who may struggle with paying for food and necessary health care. These are hardworking individuals and families who are employed but still find it difficult to meet their basic needs. Expanding access to care will provide critical support for their health and stability.”
The long-standing partnership between Baptist Nassau and Barnabas Center amounts to millions of dollars of in-kind services to Barnabas Center patients. Barnabas Center could not offer its exceptional care without the in- kind services offered to Barnabas clients by Baptist Nassau.
Tara Beth Anderson, President of Baptist Nassau, shared her support for the initiative, remarking, “This is the first contract I have signed as president of Baptist Nassau. I am proud to be part of this important collaboration with Barnabas Center. Expanding access to health care services for those in need aligns with our mission to improve the health and well-being of our community. We are grateful to see more residents benefit from this expansion, and I am honored to be part of this effort since stepping into my role as hospital president on July 22, 2024.”
Those seeking assistance can call Barnabas Center at 904-261-7000, and the front desk receptionist will guide applicants through the health care intake process. The $10 fee for medical appointments is the standard fee for all medical appointments at Barnabas Center. The goal is to allow patients to seek medical care without a financial burden. Access to care is important when striving to live a healthy life! Barnabas Center wants to decrease a person’s difficult choice between keeping the lights on and choosing to see a medical professional by offering a variety of health care, dental and supportive social services.
About Barnabas Center
Barnabas Center’s mission is to provide help and hope to individuals and families in need throughout Nassau County to improve their stability, health, and well-being.
About Baptist Medical Center Nassau
Baptist Medical Center Nassau, located in Fernandina Beach, Florida, is part of the Baptist Health system and is dedicated to providing high-quality medical care to the Nassau County community. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, imaging, and specialized care in various fields. Baptist Medical Center Nassau is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of its patients and is proud to collaborate with organizations like Barnabas Center to expand access to healthcare for those in need.
