Governor Ron DeSantis has introduced the Focus on Florida’s Future Budget, which includes new investments aimed at improving public health and health care across the state. The budget announcement underscores ongoing support from Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis for health care innovation in Florida.
"Governor DeSantis understands the importance of investing in Floridians’ health,” said State Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo. “These investments in public health and health care will support the Florida Department of Health in protecting, promoting, and improving the health of all Floridians.”
The proposed budget allocates $219 million to continue efforts against cancer, with $60 million designated for the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund to back research initiatives. An additional $788,642 is set aside to enhance cancer data collection through Florida’s Cancer Data System, which helps monitor cancer trends and supports prevention and treatment strategies.
Other key allocations include $7.3 million for Early Steps, a program supporting infants and toddlers who have or are at risk for developmental delays. The budget also provides $5.3 million to expand routine screening for HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis within emergency departments to improve diagnoses and treatment.
To address behavioral health needs among children, $2.25 million will be used to train pediatricians as part of Behavioral Health Hubs that offer or refer mental health services. Furthermore, $1 million is dedicated to the Florida Stroke Registry to help providers use data effectively and share best practices for stroke care.
The Department of Health states these investments will help broaden access to services through coordinated efforts at state, county, and community levels under its nationally accredited integrated public health system.
The Florida Department of Health is accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works statewide to protect and promote public well-being through collaborative initiatives.
More information about these programs can be found at www.FloridaHealth.gov.