UF Health Cancer Center named Center of Excellence by health department, governor’s office
Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Department of Health have recognized the University of Florida Health Cancer Center, with locations in Gainesville and Orlando, as a state-designated Cancer Center of Excellence.
The designation by the Florida Legislature recognizes hospitals and treatment centers that demonstrate excellence in patient-centered coordinated care for people undergoing cancer treatment and chemotherapy. The hope is that the designation will encourage excellence in cancer care, attract and retain the best cancer care providers in the state and help Florida be recognized nationally as a preferred destination for quality cancer care, according to the Department of Health website.
The Department of Health based the designation on a “systems approach” to improving the quality of cancer care, focused on three areas: the health care organization, the health care team members and patients and family members.
"We appreciate this recognition from Gov. Scott and designation as a state Cancer Center of Excellence,” said UF President Kent Fuchs. “Both reflect the commitment and dedication of our educators, scientists and clinicians as they strive to provide the best possible care and treatment to patients — while also remaining mindful to their loved ones and families.”
UF Health and Orlando Health launched a joint oncology program early last year. The joint program has resulted in one of the state’s largest, most comprehensive cancer programs, staffed by some of the nation’s top oncology experts. With facilities throughout central Florida, the physicians and staff at the UF Health Cancer Center serve more than 10,000 new cancer patients annually.
“We are pleased to be recognized by the state for our leading-edge, innovative cancer research, which helps fuel the high-quality, patient-centered focus of our physicians, nurses and support staff,” said David S. Guzick, M.D., Ph.D., UF senior vice president for health affairs and UF Health president.
By combining the knowledge, experience and expertise at both organizations, the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health offers patients expanded clinical care and treatment options provided by highly subspecialized physicians, oncologists, surgeons and staff who collaborate to provide comprehensive interdisciplinary care. The approach also benefits patients with expanded access to additional UF Health experts, new drugs, clinical trials and shared resources.
“We are thrilled that the state has recognized the exceptional cancer care that we continue to provide to our patients. This joint oncology program has created a forum for leading researchers to share discoveries with top physicians,” said Mark Roh, M.D., UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health president. “Our goal is to treat the entire patient, offering multi-disciplinary cancer treatments side-by-side with integrative medicine services, educational classes and support groups. Serving more than 10,000 new cancer patients annually, together we are one of the largest and most respected cancer care providers in Florida.”