The Florida Department of Health has announced the launch of the Florida Health Care Innovation Loan Program, an annual $50 million initiative aimed at supporting new ideas to improve health care delivery and quality in the state. The program is part of broader efforts to drive innovation within Florida’s health care system.
The Health Care Innovation Council, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, oversees the program. The council includes members with backgrounds in health care, technology, finance, and patient advocacy.
“The launch of the Health Care Innovation Revolving Loan program represents yet another significant step in Florida’s efforts to foster a culture of innovation within Florida's health care community," said Lt. Governor Jay Collins. "As the Council Chair and newest member, I am honored to work with the Council to support health care innovation implementing solutions that address the evolving needs of our state's health care system."
"This loan program reflects Florida’s commitment to patient-centered innovation and medical choice," said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. "We are investing in the lives of Floridians by supporting solutions that improve care delivery and outcomes."
The council was established to promote new technologies, workforce pathways, and models for delivering services that increase efficiency across Florida’s health care sector. Its objectives include easing pressure on health workers, improving access to services, enhancing patient outcomes, reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, and lowering costs for both patients and the state without compromising quality.
A dedicated website at Innovation.flhealth.gov has been created as a resource for stakeholders such as providers, entrepreneurs, technology developers, and members of the public interested in innovative health care projects. The department also opened its online loan portal at healthcareinnovationloan.floridahealth.gov/LAP to streamline applications for eligible entities seeking funding.
Through this portal, applicants can submit applications securely online, review eligibility requirements and guidelines for loans, track their application status, and access additional resources or support during the process.
Eligible applicants include organizations licensed or certified by the Agency for Health Care Administration—such as hospitals, residential treatment centers, ambulatory surgery centers, nursing homes, assisted living facilities—and educational or clinical training organizations partnering with those facilities.
The Department of Health is accredited nationally by the Public Health Accreditation Board and operates statewide initiatives focused on protecting and improving public health through collaboration at state and local levels.
More information about programs or funding opportunities can be found at www.FloridaHealth.gov or through contacting healthinnovation@flhealth.gov.