Florida’s three leading centers for cancer research and treatment would receive $100 million under a gubernatorial budget proposal for fiscal 2022-2023. The proposal was unveiled by First lady Casey DeSantis during a round-table event in Tampa on Dec. 8.
Under the plan, the Moffitt Cancer Center, the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Florida Health Cancer Center would get a share of the funds to enhance cancer care and support research at each facility.
All three institutions are members of the Florida Consortium of National Cancer Institute Centers Program which was established by the State Legislature in 2014 to support the quality and competitiveness of cancer care in the state. The initiative funds cancer institutes in Florida that are or are seeking to become National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated.
The budget proposal represents a $37 million increase in funding over the prior fiscal year.
Casey DeSantis said that the funding is key to keeping Florida at the cutting edge of cancer care and research.
“Florida offers some of the best cancer care and research in the nation, and I’m proud that we are proposing historic investments in our leading cancer centers,” she said. “The Governor and I are committed to helping every cancer patient that we can through innovative research and high-quality care.”
The revenue will also allow the three Consortium members to attract clinicians and researchers from around the world, as well as to bring research teams and grant funds to Florida, according to Moffitt President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Patrick Hwu.
Finally, Casey DeSantis, who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year, urged Floridians to receive cancer screenings and to seek appropriate care.
“Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in our state and now is not the time to delay care,” she said.
Gov. Ron DeSantis’ complete proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2022-23 is expected to be announced shortly.
