Jackson Memorial Unveils Balanced Fiscal Year 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets

The Miami-Dade County Public Health Trust Board of Trustees convened on August 27, 2025, to discuss the proposed operating and capital budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting highlighted key initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

The proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2026 is balanced, with a target of breakeven performance. Significant growth is anticipated in various service areas, including a new emergency department at Jackson Memorial Hospital, which is set to open in March. Other expansions include spine transplant programs and urology services at Jackson North, while Jackson South will see changes in its service offerings, including the closure of its labor and delivery unit.

Projected metrics for the upcoming year indicate a 1.6% increase in patient admissions, reaching 80,511, and a 2.4% rise in surgeries, totaling 30,211. Emergency department visits are expected to increase by 4,500, although deliveries are projected to decline by nearly 6% due to the aforementioned closure at Jackson South. Outpatient services are also expected to grow, driven by additional providers in various specialties.

The budget anticipates a 6% increase in revenues, primarily from a focus on specialized services and improved managed care rates. However, there is a projected decrease of $39 million in sales tax revenue, alongside a 7% increase in ad valorem property taxes, resulting in a net reduction of $15 million for the fiscal year.

The capital budget for 2026 totals $258.7 million, with major allocations including $92.1 million for the emergency department expansion and $35.6 million for infrastructure upgrades. Investments in medical equipment and IT improvements, including a significant allocation for the EPIC electronic health record system, are also included.

In conclusion, the proposed budget reflects a strategic balance between operational needs and future investments, ensuring continued access to quality healthcare while maintaining fiscal discipline. The Board welcomed questions and feedback from attendees, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the budget proposal.