Bill > S1660

This bill establishes a "Cancer Center of Excellence Award" to recognize healthcare providers in Florida that excel in cancer care and treatment, aiming to encourage high-quality, patient-centered care and attract top providers. To achieve this, the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council and the Biomedical Research Advisory Council will each appoint members to form a joint committee responsible for developing specific performance measures, a rating system, and a rating standard for award applicants. These criteria will include requirements like maintaining a good standing license, accreditation by the Commission on Cancer, participation in regional cancer control collaboratives, demonstrating excellence in cancer research, integrating training, and meeting enhanced care coordination standards covering aspects from specialist coordination to survivor services and patient satisfaction. Providers applying for the award will be evaluated by an independent team, and those who receive the award will be recognized for three years and gain preference in state-related competitive solicitations for cancer care or research during that period. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for endowed research chairs to attract experienced researchers and requires certain entities receiving specific appropriations for cancer research or care to submit annual progress reports.