#United States #Tampa #Tampa General #ASCO #QOPI certification

Tampa General Hospital's TGH Cancer Institute: A Beacon of Excellence in Oncology Care

In a remarkable achievement, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has been awarded the esteemed QOPI® certification from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) for its Cancer Institute. This significant accolade highlights TGH's relentless pursuit of excellence and its unwavering commitment to providing top-tier oncology care to patients in Tampa Bay and beyond.

What is QOPI® Certification?

QOPI®, or the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative, is a rigorous certification program that assesses a cancer treatment facility against a stringent set of quality standards. This certification not only acknowledges the institute’s dedication to delivering safe and effective patient care but also encourages continuous improvement through regular evaluations. TGH Cancer Institute’s success in achieving QOPI® certification is a testament to its commitment to excellence in all aspects of cancer treatment, ranging from treatment planning, staff training, chemotherapy procedures, to patient education and monitoring.

Commitment to Patient Safety and Care

Dr. Eduardo Sotomayor, the Vice President and Executive Director of the TGH Cancer Institute, shared his enthusiasm about this accomplishment, stating, "This accreditation elevates our compassionate oncology care to another level and underscores how we foster a culture of excellence that enhances our ability to deliver world-class care to our patients." Under his leadership and that of other pivotal team members, including Tricia Skarr and Leo Begazo, the institute went through a rigorous assessment process which was essential in meeting the robust QOPI® standards.

The certification not only recognizes past efforts but also sets a clear framework for future growth, pushing the boundaries of quality care and innovation at TGH. The institute’s achievements are also supported by its academic partnership with USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, providing comprehensive cancer care through a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses medical and radiation oncology, surgical services, and more.

A Multidimensional Approach to Cancer Treatment

The TGH Cancer Institute prides itself on its coordinated approach to oncology. Their state-of-the-art Care Coordination Center facilitates seamless integration of care, ensuring that patients receive prompt attention and early interventions, especially those with acute conditions such as leukemia. The platform's efficiency allows for 24-hour transfers of critically ill patients, underscoring the institute's proactive approach to patient care.

As Dr. Abraham Schwarzberg, Executive Vice President and Chief of Oncology at TGH, summarized, "This certification recognizes our unwavering commitment to high-quality treatment and care, while also offering a framework to continuously evaluate and improve our practices based on performance standards and quality measures set by leading experts in the field." This philosophy is deeply embedded in the culture at TGH and inspires each member of their dedicated team.

National Recognition and Future Aspirations

The TGH Cancer Institute not only stands out for its QOPI certification but also ranks among the top 50 cancer centers in the U.S. News & World Report's 2024-2025 Best Hospitals list, making it the third best in Florida. With groundbreaking therapies, advanced diagnostic imaging, and a highly coordinated treatment model, the institute continues to push forward in the battle against cancer.

Additionally, it has received accolades from both the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer Accreditation and has been included in Newsweek's list of America's Best Cancer Hospitals. These recognitions reinforce the institute's reputation as a leader in oncology care.

Community Impact and Commitment

Beyond its clinical achievements, TGH is a community-focused organization dedicated to delivering care to all, irrespective of their financial circumstances. In the last fiscal year alone, TGH provided a net community benefit of approximately $240.3 million. With the honor of being Florida's busiest adult solid organ transplant center, TGH serves as a safety net for the region, ensuring that everyone has access to vital health services.

As TGH continues to expand its services and enhance its patient care capabilities, the institution remains committed to meeting and exceeding the high standards set forth by QOPI® and other esteemed organizations. This ongoing drive for quality not only improves patient outcomes but serves as a model of excellence in healthcare that others aspire to emulate.

For detailed information about the TGH Cancer Institute or to seek further medical assistance, visit their official website at www.tgh.org/cancer.