Moffitt Cancer Center Partners with Leica Biosystems to Advance Digital Pathology Statewide
First large-scale program in the state lays foundation for AI applications and aims to enhance speed, precision and access in pathology services.
TAMPA, Fla. and VISTA, Calif. (Sept. 25, 2025) — Leica Biosystems, a global leader in anatomic and digital pathology solutions, and Moffitt Cancer Center, one of the nation’s top cancer hospitals and a leader in cancer research, are expanding their partnership to accelerate the adoption of digital pathology across the state. This strategic collaboration marks Florida’s first large-scale implementation of digital pathology technology, aimed at improving speed, precision and access to pathology services.
The initiative comes at a critical time: Florida ranks third nationwide in projected cancer incidence, with an estimated 162,410 new cases in 2023 alone1. As demand for services continues to rise, digital pathology offers a scalable solution to help meet that need, enabling efficient and equitable care through remote collaboration, real-time insights, and accessible reporting from any location with computer access.
Building on a successful research initiative using the Aperio GT 450 scanner, Moffitt will deepen its investment in the Aperio GT platform to support broader adoption of digital workflows—bringing innovation to one of the nation’s most impacted regions. This collaboration also reflects a broader commitment to accelerating innovation in pathology workflows, with the goal of advancing precision medicine. As AI-enabled technologies continue to evolve, digital pathology is increasingly positioned to support scalable, data-driven insights, critical to cancer research and laying the foundation for precision therapies.
“This partnership is transforming how pathology services are delivered,” said William Westra, MD, vice chair of Pathology at Moffitt. “Digital pathology enables faster access to expert insights, removes geographic barriers, and supports broader outreach efforts. The success of this initiative has significant implications for improving access to high-quality pathology services across Florida and beyond.”
Meeting growing demand with innovation
Moffitt’s pathology department processes more than 1.5 million glass slides annually, reflecting the need for scalable, efficient solutions. As demand for pathology services continues to rise nationwide, digital tools offer a way to meet that need with speed and precision.
Digital pathology uses high-resolution images that can be shared instantly, enabling collaboration across locations and reducing turnaround times. It also supports remote review and consultation, helping extend expertise to areas with limited access.
Expanding access through technology
By removing geographic constraints, digital pathology helps ensure timely and consistent results for more people, including those in underserved regions. Remote reviews can be conducted without compromising quality, supporting broader access to specialized pathology services.
A shared commitment to innovation
Leica Biosystems, a Danaher company, is a recognized leader in digital pathology. The Aperio GT 450 line offers high-throughput scanning, exceptional image quality and seamless integration, empowering pathology teams to work more efficiently and confidently.
“Leica Biosystems is proud to support Moffitt Cancer Center in expanding digital pathology across Florida,” said Naveen Chandra, VP & GM, Digital Pathology at Leica Biosystems. “Digital pathology is enabling scalable, data-driven insights, and with AI technologies, accelerating innovation. Together, these advancements are laying the groundwork for the next generation of precision medicine and cancer care.”
About Leica Biosystems
Leica Biosystems is a cancer diagnostics company and a global leader in anatomic and digital pathology solutions. The company offers a comprehensive product range for every step in the pathology process, from sample preparation and staining to imaging and reporting. As the only company to own the full workflow from biopsy to diagnosis, Leica Biosystems is uniquely positioned to break down workflow barriers. The company’s mission of “Advancing Cancer Diagnostics, Improving Lives” drives its innovation in partnership with cancer centers worldwide.
About Moffitt Cancer Center
Moffitt is dedicated to one lifesaving mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer. The Tampa-based facility is one of only 57 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a distinction that recognizes Moffitt’s scientific excellence, multidisciplinary research, and robust training and education. Moffitt’s expert nursing staff is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center with Magnet® status, its highest distinction. For more information, call 1-888-MOFFITT (1-888-663-3488), visit MOFFITT.org, and follow the momentum on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
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1Source: American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2023. Estimated new cancer cases in Florida: 162,410. Florida ranks third nationwide in projected cancer incidence. American Cancer Society – Cancer Facts & Figures 2023
