OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Moffitt Cancer Center celebrated a new milestone by expanding access to its specialized oncology expertise with the unveiling of Moffitt First Connect, an initiative designed to bring care closer to patients, on Thursday, September 10, 2026. The new location concept in Ocala will serve patients beginning Sept. 14.
The ceremony brought together Moffitt leaders, local and state elected officials, and supporters to commemorate the opening of the office, located at 11115 SW 93rd Ct. Rd., Suite 600 in Ocala.
“Today is about more than opening a new office. It is about opening a new pathway to hope and timely cancer care,” said Nainesh Parikh, M.D., Moffitt chief clinical expansion and partnerships officer. “At Moffitt, we know that one of the most stressful times in a patient’s journey is the period between a suspected diagnosis and receiving answers. Moffitt First Connect will quickly connect individuals with suspected or newly diagnosed cancers to Moffitt’s world-renowned specialists and resources. By creating a dedicated access site, we can reduce barriers, shorten wait times and help patients in north central Florida move more quickly toward treatment and recovery.”
Moffitt First Connect is designed to help patients access Moffitt specialists more efficiently, support timely diagnostic workups and facilitate a coordinated transition to treatment at the appropriate Moffitt location. Moffitt’s new office aims to help meet a growing need in the Ocala region, where team members can provide a clear plan to world-class cancer specialists and services.
Advanced practice providers at Moffitt First Connect will work with patients in the community to provide early engagement and timely evaluation while guiding patients to appropriate specialists and services across Moffitt locations.
Staff will conduct initial oncology assessments, review medical histories and pertinent records, perform physical assessments, provide referral support and coordinate diagnostic workups before connecting patients to the appropriate Moffitt specialists and treatment locations. Patients can then get their diagnostic testing, treatment and other services at Moffitt locations.
“Moffitt First Connect will launch your cancer journey in the familiar surroundings of your hometown. You will be met with kindness, empathy and understanding. You will come to find walking through Moffitt doors anywhere means you will be embraced,” said Ocala resident and cancer survivor Amy Bondon. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please visit the Ocala location page.