Duval County Health Department seeks Jacksonville funding for public health programs

The City of Jacksonville's Finance Committee convened on August 22, 2025, to discuss the budget allocations for the Department of Health, focusing on essential public health programs. The meeting featured a presentation by Antonio Nichols, the Health Officer Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Duval County, who outlined the various programs funded by the city.

Nichols emphasized that the funding is crucial for supporting core public health functions, including STD immunizations, primary care services, and the HEROAP program, which serves as an alternative to hospital emergency rooms for individuals living with HIV and AIDS. He highlighted that these programs are vital for protecting and improving the health of Jacksonville residents.

Council President Carico acknowledged the importance of the health department's work and expressed a commitment to addressing health needs in underserved areas of the city. Councilwoman Pittman inquired about the impact of the HEROAP program, to which Nichols responded that the funding has allowed for the hiring of additional medical professionals, enabling the department to divert patients from emergency rooms to more appropriate care settings.

Further discussions included the primary care program, which encompasses pediatric services and tuberculosis treatment. Council Vice President Holland raised concerns about the coordination of various health initiatives and the need for a more integrated approach to healthcare delivery in the city.

The committee reviewed the proposed budget, which indicated a slight increase of less than 1% from the previous year. Despite the modest growth, there was strong support among committee members for the health department's funding, with a motion made to approve the budget allocation of approximately $1.2 million for the various health programs.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of the Department of Health in Jacksonville and the ongoing efforts to enhance public health services through city funding. The committee's support reflects a commitment to addressing health disparities and improving access to care for all residents.