#United States #Tampa #Proton Therapy #St. Joseph's Hospital #BayCare Cancer Institute

BayCare Cancer Institute Marks a Milestone in Cancer Treatment

TAMPA, Fla. — In a significant development for the BayCare Cancer Institute, a pivotal piece of equipment necessary for launching its new proton therapy facility has successfully arrived at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa. This proton accelerator is set to transform cancer treatment in West Central Florida. The construction of this state-of-the-art center has been an ambitious project, breaking ground only 13 months prior to the arrival of this critical technology.

The proton accelerator, manufactured by Mevion Medical Systems in Littleton, Massachusetts, traveled over 1,300 miles to reach its new home. The journey was notable not only for the distance but also for the complexities involved in its installation. A 400-ton crane was required to delicately navigate the accelerator into place, necessitating the intricate removal and subsequent replacement of concrete planks from the existing roof of the therapy center.

Jennifer Kotwicki, the director of operations at St. Joseph’s Hospital, expressed her pride in this milestone achievement. “The proton therapy center construction reflects extensive collaboration among all parties involved, united by the desire to enhance cancer care accessibility in our community,” she stated. The proton therapy center aims to provide advanced treatment options for both adult and pediatric patients, significantly broadening BayCare's healthcare offerings.

Proton therapy represents a notable advancement in the realm of oncology, utilizing highly charged proton particles to specifically target and destroy tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This method not only reduces immediate side effects for patients but also lowers the likelihood of long-term complications, including secondary cancers—a significant benefit in treatment regimens.

The center is expected to commence patient treatments by mid-2026, with the BayCare team optimistic about the positive impacts it will have on the local community. The introduction of proton therapy underscores BayCare's ongoing commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate patient care, further solidifying its role as the leading healthcare provider in the region.

With 16 hospitals, including a dedicated children's facility, and numerous service locations across the Tampa Bay area, BayCare is a substantial non-profit academic healthcare system providing a wide range of services. The organization's missions extend beyond treatment, emphasizing community health improvement through quality care.

In welcoming the new proton therapy accelerator, BayCare not only increases its capacity to treat cancer but also enhances its reputation for providing cutting-edge healthcare solutions. This key development is expected to enable more patients to access specialized cancer treatments, reflecting BayCare's dedication to innovative healthcare delivery.

For additional information about BayCare and its expanding services, visit BayCare.org.