Tampa Bay’s first proton therapy center to rise at St. Joseph’s Hospital

In a significant advancement for cancer care in the Tampa Bay area, St. Joseph’s Hospital Cancer Institute has announced the commencement of construction for the region’s first proton therapy center. This new facility represents a leap forward in cancer treatment technology, offering local patients access to the most advanced form of radiation therapy.

Innovative Cancer Treatment on the Horizon

Proton therapy, a cutting-edge technique that utilizes protons instead of X-rays, allows for a more precise targeting of cancerous tumors, minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues. This innovation leads to fewer side effects for patients and reduces the risk of secondary malignancies, marking a milestone in the evolution of cancer treatment options in the Tampa Bay community.

A Leap in Local Cancer Care

BayCare’s commitment to enhancing the quality of cancer care in the area is underscored by the investment of $33 million in the new center. “The ability to target cancer cells with improved precision and accuracy is invaluable,” remarked Nitesh Paryani, M.D., underscoring the significance of the proton therapy’s precision, especially for critical cases where cancer lies close to vital organs and for pediatric patients.

Advanced Cancer Treatment Comes to Tampa: St. Joseph’s Hospital Initiates Proton Therapy Center Construction. Photo courtesy of Mevion Medical Systems.

Seamless Integration of Advanced Technology

The center, expected to open by fall 2025, benefits from rapid development timelines thanks to innovative technology that is compact and integrates seamlessly with existing healthcare infrastructures. The new system, designed by Mevion Medical Systems, combines precision radiation delivery with an upright patient positioning system, enhancing patient comfort during treatment.

Extensive Network of Cancer Care

St. Joseph’s Hospital is part of the BayCare health system, which offers a comprehensive network of specialized cancer care across four counties. This integrated system includes hospitals, breast centers, radiation services, and support resources, ensuring a collaborative approach to cancer treatment.

A Tradition of Excellence in Radiation Therapy

The Fred J. Woods Radiation Therapy Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital has a longstanding history of providing exceptional cancer treatment, serving over 900 patients annually with various radiation therapies and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

The construction of the proton therapy center at St. Joseph’s Hospital marks a transformative development for the treatment of cancer in the Tampa Bay area. With an emphasis on precision, patient comfort, and integrated care, this initiative stands as a beacon of progress in the fight against cancer.