Health Care Leaders Unite to Improve Cancer Treatment Access in Florida's Rural Areas

Addressing Cancer Treatment Accessibility in Rural Florida

On March 5, 2025, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Cancer Institute and USF Health hosted an important conference aimed at improving cancer treatment access for rural populations in Florida. Held at TGH Brooksville, the event gathered leading healthcare experts, academic scholars, and cancer survivors, marking a significant step towards bridging gaps in cancer care disparities.

The event, titled "Addressing the Cancer Control Continuum in Rural Communities," featured keynotes from prominent leaders in healthcare, including John D. Couris, the president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital, and Dr. Eduardo Sotomayor, the vice president and executive director of the Cancer Institute. Both emphasized the urgent need for enhanced accessibility to groundbreaking research and high-quality care for rural cancer patients.

Couris highlighted the dual challenges posed by geographical limitations and the need for advanced treatment options, stating, "With the incredible technologies and innovations available today, nothing should stand in the way of cancer patients accessing breakthrough research, innovative treatments, and world-class care. Yet geography remains a substantial barrier."

The conference brought together experts from various reputable institutions, such as the University of South Florida, Moffitt Cancer Center, and the American Cancer Society. Charles J. Lockwood, M.D., noted the blending of academic resources and healthcare services as vital in tailoring cancer treatment to the specific needs of rural communities. He asserted, "We are committed to ensuring that all Floridians can receive comprehensive cancer services that are coordinated across the full spectrum of care." By working together, healthcare providers hope to deliver comprehensive support, whether through surgical innovations or by making the latest clinical trials accessible.

One of the focal areas of the discussions was the integration of technology and telemedicine in overcoming obstacles faced by rural patients. Peter Chang, M.D., senior vice president and chief transformation officer at TGH, spoke about how artificial intelligence and teleoncology can transform cancer care delivery in underserved areas.

Dr. Sotomayor also echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the importance of prevention and early detection in improving cancer survival rates. He stated, "Preventive measures are our strongest assets, and early detection is critical to a successful treatment plan. We are collaborating with governmental partners and extending our outreach to various healthcare systems to promote awareness and encourage screening."

The series of discussions throughout the day centered on crucial topics such as cancer prevention strategies, effective treatment modalities, and the importance of survivor care after treatment completion. Many researchers presented new findings from recent clinical trials, underscoring why it is imperative for rural populations to gain access to cutting-edge research and treatment innovations.

In its outreach efforts, TGH Cancer Institute aims to create meaningful partnerships that tackle cancer disparities. The event concluded with breakout sessions that aimed to brainstorm actionable solutions for the challenges discussed. Facilitators engaged participants in conversations about access to care, survivorship models, prevention, and regional collaborations.

Tampa General Hospital’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare doesn’t just stop at cancer treatment. As one of the largest hospitals in the nation, it also focuses on community education and providing financial support to health initiatives across Tampa Bay. In 2023 alone, TGH provided approximately $301.8 million in community benefits, including essential healthcare for underserved patients.

With ongoing efforts, Tampa General Hospital and USF Health are paving the way for a more equitable healthcare landscape, ensuring that every Floridian diagnosed with cancer has access to the best possible care and outcomes. By uniting expertise across various disciplines, they aim to dismantle barriers and facilitate breakthrough treatment access, ultimately fostering a healthier future for all Floridians.

To learn more about the innovative healthcare solutions and community support initiatives offered by Tampa General Hospital and USF Health, please visit their official websites.

About Tampa General Hospital:
TGH is a not-for-profit academic health system comprising 981 beds and is recognized as the only Level 1 trauma center in the region.
About USF Health:
USF Health is dedicated to improving the future of health through research, community engagement, and high-impact educational programs.