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Tallahassee, Fla. — Governor DeSantis' Florida Leads budget funds the Florida Department of Health (FDOH)  to ensure the health of those who reside, work in and visit Florida is protected while providing the state's health systems with the resources needed to continue improving the health outcomes of millions of Floridians.

Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees said, "Governor DeSantis' proposed Florida Leads budget will keep our state's citizens healthy while providing the tools needed to continue to combat COVID-19 here in Florida. Having the right resources available to our state's health systems has never been more important and thanks to the leadership of Governor DeSantis, we will continue to have the funding needed to make a difference in the lives of Floridians while also making investments in our future."

The Governor's Budget recommends:

• $2.8M for combatting the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Florida: Funding will be used for prevention, treatment and response.
• $9M for Strengthening Florida's Minority Health and Health Equity Infrastructure: This funding will address racial and ethnic health disparities, including maternal and infant mortality, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, lupus, HIV and social determinants of health.
• $4M for a customer service solution to better meet the needs and improve the quality of services provided to health care professionals.

Duval County Health Medical Executive Director Dr. Pauline Rolle said, "Infant mortality is a key measure of public health and the Department is committed to reducing infant mortality across all races and ethnicities. I am grateful to Governor DeSantis for understanding this complex issue and providing the resources needed to reduce racial disparities and increase health equity for all."

Pinellas County Health Officer Dr. Ulyee Choe said, "Fighting against COVID-19 and other health threats that endanger the lives of Floridians requires a decisive use of resources. I applaud Governor Ron DeSantis for providing prevention, treatment and care to those who are most in need."

Miami Dade County Health Officer Dr. Yesenia Villalta said, "The increase in funding and the subsequent expansion of resources to strengthen minority health care is critical in ensuring all Floridians have access to equitable health care. I am thankful that Governor DeSantis continues to prioritize the health care needs of Florida's diverse minority populations.”

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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