Excellence in cancer care

In March, Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Department of Health recognized the UF 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. UF Health and Orlando Health launched a joint oncology program early last year. “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. — Lindy Brounley