The Florida Department of Health has introduced the Florida Health Care Innovation Loan Program, an initiative that will provide $50 million annually to support new approaches in health care delivery across the state. The program aims to encourage innovative solutions that can improve the quality and efficiency of health care for Floridians.
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 created to promote technologies and service models that make delivering health care more efficient in Florida. Its goals include reducing strain on staff, expanding access for patients, improving outcomes, lowering unnecessary emergency room visits, and cutting costs while maintaining quality.
A new website at Innovation.flhealth.gov offers information for stakeholders such as providers, entrepreneurs, technology developers, and members of the public interested in participating or learning more about innovation efforts in state health care. In addition, a dedicated loan portal at healthcareinnovationloan.floridahealth.gov/LAP allows eligible organizations—such as hospitals and residential treatment facilities—to apply online for funding opportunities.
Entities eligible for loans must be licensed or certified by the Agency for Health Care Administration; this includes hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, as well as organizations involved in educational or clinical training partnerships with these facilities.
The Department is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works through coordinated efforts at various levels to protect and promote public health statewide.
More details about available funding can be found on Innovation.flhealth.gov or by contacting healthinnovation@flhealth.gov.
