FL S1660

Establishes a Cancer Center of Excellence Award program to recognize hospitals and treatment centers that demonstrate excellence in patient-centered coordinated cancer care, with awards valid for 3 years and renewable.

Creates a 13-member joint committee (7 members from Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council, 6 from Biomedical Research Advisory Council) to develop performance measures, rating system, and application criteria by January 1, 2014, with reviews at least every 3 years.

Requires minimum standards for award eligibility including state licensure, American College of Surgeons accreditation, participation in regional cancer control collaboratives, cancer research excellence, and enhanced care coordination standards covering psychosocial services, clinical trials information, and survivor services.

Directs the State Surgeon General to appoint five independent evaluators to assess applications through two annual application cycles, with awards presented by the Governor and State Surgeon General, and allows award recipients to use the designation in marketing and receive 3-year preference in state cancer-related competitive solicitations.

Requires endowed research chairs for cancer research institutions and annual progress reporting to the Legislature by December 15 on fund usage, research outcomes, and federal or private grants generated.