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Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute Joins AACI

In a commendable achievement, the Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Cancer Institute has been officially accepted into the esteemed Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI). This membership is not merely an accolade; it signifies TGH's steadfast dedication to excellence in cancer research, treatment methodologies, education, and proactive community outreach.

The AACI plays a critical role in shaping national cancer policy and enhancing access to care. By partnering with over 100 leading cancer centers across North America, TGH Cancer Institute aims to elevate the quality of cancer care systematically. Having been established just four years ago, TGH now stands shoulder to shoulder with established institutions that have previously dominated this prestigious landscape.

To qualify for AACI admission, cancer centers must showcase a comprehensive array of cancer-related clinical disciplines that focus highly on patient care. This includes a robust catalogue of clinical trials, proactive community education, screening endeavors, and a firm investment in advancing oncology. Joining this network allows TGH to participate in pivotal policy discussions at the national level and to collaborate on best practices with peers across the country, ultimately promoting raising industry standards for cancer care.

Dr. Eduardo Sotomayor, the vice president and executive director of the TGH Cancer Institute, expressed that AACI membership marks a significant milestone. He stated, "This recognition illustrates our commitment to excellence not only in patient care and research but also aligns us with a larger mission against cancer. The AACI's invaluable resources will assist us in enhancing our efforts towards establishing a world-class cancer institute driven by compassion, innovation, and healthcare expertise."

In the relatively short timeframe since its creation, the TGH Cancer Institute has seen remarkable growth. The institute's multidisciplinary approach has enabled it to recruit leading specialists in oncology and foster innovative treatments and clinical trials, consistently improving patient outcomes across regions.

Dr. Abraham Schwarzberg, executive vice president and chief of oncology, further explained, "As an academic health system, our partnership with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine underlines our commitment to clinical trials, basic science, and translational research. This collaboration enhances our efforts significantly and positions us to work alongside other leading cancer institutions effectively."

Distinguished as one of Florida’s few cancer centers supported by an academic institution, TGH is not only recognized for its superior quality but also ranks among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals rankings for 2025-2026. The institute exemplifies holistic patient care complemented by groundbreaking therapies and advanced diagnostic tools, completely committed to a highly coordinated, interdisciplinary approach to treatment.

The TGH Cancer Institute has gained accreditation from notable organizations, including the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). These endorsements highlight their adherence to rigorous standards for clinical excellence and patient safety, especially in treating aggressive blood cancers through stem cell transplants and cellular therapies. Also, its commendable performances have been recognized as among the best cancer hospitals by Newsweek, solidifying its revered status.

To learn more about the TGH Cancer Institute and its innovative approach towards cancer care, visit their website at Cancer Institute | Tampa General Hospital.

About AACI

The Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI) stands as the only organization focused solely on the representation and advancement of academic cancer centers. With over 100 member institutions throughout the U.S. and Canada, the AACI fosters peer recognition and promotes essential partnerships aimed at improving the quality of care provided by cancer centers.

Overview of Tampa General Hospital

Tampa General Hospital serves as the only academic health system within the Tampa Bay area. With its 1,529-bed capacity, this not-for-profit network delivers an extensive array of services across Florida. Notably recognized for its trauma center capability, Tampa General is ranked as the highest hospital in the region by U.S. News and World Report for 2025-2026. Further, its commitment to leveraging technology for advances in patient care has led it to be awarded prominent recognitions by reputable sources, affirming its status as a leader in healthcare excellence.