The Florida Department of Health has launched the Florida Health Care Innovation Loan Program, an initiative aimed at encouraging new approaches in the state’s health care sector. The program will make $50 million available annually through a revolving loan fund to support projects that seek to improve health care delivery and quality.
A central part of the initiative is the Health Care Innovation Council, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. The council includes members with expertise in areas such as 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 formed to encourage adoption of innovative technologies, workforce pathways, and service models intended to make health care delivery more efficient in Florida. Its objectives include reducing strain on health workers, expanding access for patients, improving outcomes, lowering unnecessary emergency department use, and decreasing costs without sacrificing quality.
To help applicants navigate the process, a new website (Innovation.flhealth.gov) has been introduced as a resource for providers, entrepreneurs, technology developers and others interested in participating. The department also opened an online portal (https://healthcareinnovationloan.floridahealth.gov/LAP) where eligible entities can apply for funding.
The application portal provides secure submission options along with information about eligibility requirements and allows applicants to track their status throughout the process.
Entities eligible for loans include those licensed or certified by the Agency for Health Care Administration—such as hospitals, residential treatment facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, nursing homes and assisted living facilities—as well as organizations involved in educational or clinical training partnerships with these facilities.
The Florida Department of Health is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works statewide across multiple levels to protect and improve public health.
For more details about this program or other department initiatives visit www.FloridaHealth.gov or see section 381.4015 of Florida Statutes.
