Governor Ron DeSantis has signed the Focus on Florida’s Future Budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, which includes a series of investments aimed at supporting public health and healthcare innovation across the state. The new budget seeks to foster efficiency and collaboration within Florida’s healthcare systems.
State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo commented on the legislative action, stating, "This year’s investments made by Governor DeSantis and our leaders in the Florida Legislature will continue to improve the lives of Floridians. I am proud to serve under our Governor as we continue advancing public health and personal responsibility in Florida."
The budget allocates $232 million for cancer research initiatives. Of this amount, $60 million is designated for the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, which supports new cancer research projects that could drive further scientific exploration. Another $127.5 million is directed toward the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program.
A total of $10 million will be used to create a Sickle Cell Disease Research and Treatment Grant Program intended to enhance services for people with sickle cell disease in Florida and promote further research into treatments.
Additional funding includes $9.6 million to assist infants and toddlers who have or are at risk of developmental delays through the Early Steps program.
The Florida Department of Health will receive $3.5 million for its FOCUS partnership—a public-private initiative aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment of HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis by expanding routine screenings in emergency departments. This program also helps develop best practices in blood-borne virus screening, diagnosis, and patient care coordination.
Behavioral health access for children will be expanded with $2.25 million allocated for training pediatricians to connect families with mental health care services through Behavioral Health Hubs.
The budget provides $1.5 million for the Florida Stroke Registry, supporting data-driven improvements in stroke care throughout state healthcare facilities.
These investments are designed to help the Florida Department of Health expand access to integrated public health services statewide through cooperation among state, county, and community partners.
The department is accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works toward protecting and promoting health throughout Florida communities via integrated efforts.