Bilirakis, Scott Look to Accelerate Development of Treatments, Cures in Healthcare

Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) – a senior member of the Health Subcommittee in the U.S. House of Representatives – and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) held a conversation with healthcare and biotech industry leaders in the Tampa Bay area to discuss the processes of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in hopes of facilitating “development of more effective treatments and cures.”

The lawmakers toured Speros’ new Moffitt Cancer Center in Land O’ Lakes, Florida, as well.

“With millions of Americans suffering from debilitating conditions and health care costs continuing to rise, we must continually seek ways to improve patient outcomes through the accelerated development of more effective treatments and cures,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “Technological advancements such as cell and gene therapies hold great promise for life-changing breakthroughs in health care. We want to harness that potential by removing unnecessary bureaucratic roadblocks that stymie innovation and increase costs, all while maintaining the highest safety standards. I appreciated the input of local stakeholders and national health care leaders about strategies we can employ to achieve these goals.  I was also particularly impressed by the collaborative, interdisciplinary approach Moffitt is using to help spur innovation in healthcare. I’m confident that Speros will be home to many critical breakthroughs for cancer and other diseases while also serving as a supportive environment for cancer patients to receive cutting-edge, individualized treatment.”

Moreover, Sen. Scott shared his experience from the visit as well.

“It was great to be at the new Moffitt Speros campus in Land O’ Lakes today with Congressman Gus Bilirakis and see innovation in healthcare in action. As Florida’s Governor and U.S. Senator, I’ve fought hard to make the Sunshine State a leader in cancer treatment and disease research. Moffitt is a huge partner in that work to provide families with access to affordable, world-class care and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

In May, the Senate passed Rep. Bilirakis’ bill – the Dr. Emmanuel Bilirakis National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act by a voice vote. It will now head to President Joe Biden’s (D) to be signed into law. The bill passed in the House of Representatives in December.