UWF awarded $260,000 to strengthen colorectal cancer screening across Florida

The University of West Florida has been awarded a contract by the Florida Department of Health to provide evaluation services for Florida's Colorectal Cancer Control Program with a four-year, $260,000 agreement.

"This project highlights the power of collaboration between higher education and public health to address critical health challenges," said Dr. Shelley Diviney, interim dean of the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health. "By improving how screening data are evaluated and used, we can support more consistent practices, informed decision-making, and improved cancer prevention efforts statewide. This project is an example of how the University of West Florida and the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health engage in research that improves the health and well-being of our community and beyond."

Led by Dr. Angela Hahn, chair and associate professor of clinical practice in the Department of Health Sciences and Administration, the team will review program monitoring data from partner health systems to understand how colorectal cancer screening work is being put into practice and where clinic processes can be strengthened. Hahn is joined by Dr. Brandy Strahan, professor in the School of Nursing, and Kristin Reichardt, program coordinator.

"Improving cancer screening is not just about doing more; it is about doing what works," Hahn said. "This evaluation effort will highlight where evidence-based practices are being applied effectively and where clinic workflows can be strengthened, helping more Floridians complete screening and receive prompt follow up when needed."

The project will strengthen the Florida Department of Health's ability to target their efforts, support effective health system changes, and track whether screening and timely follow up after abnormal results are improving across participating clinics.

Over the four year period, the University will provide ongoing evaluation deliverables, including comprehensive cancer program evaluation plans, performance measurement plans, analyses and reports of its findings and recommendations, and briefings for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Florida Department of Health, and partner health systems.

For more information about the UWF Usha Kundu, MD College of Health, visit uwf.edu/ukcoh.