BayCare Opened Proton Therapy Center in Tampa
The new $33 million facility at St. Joseph's Hospital offers advanced cancer treatment.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Healthcare
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BayCare has opened a new proton therapy center in Tampa to provide targeted radiation treatment. The facility is located at the Fred J. Woods Radiation Therapy Center at St. Joseph's Hospital.
Why it matters
The center expands access to advanced radiation technology for patients in West Central Florida. Its unique design allows for more comfortable treatment options for both adults and children.
The new facility represents a $33 million investment in radiation oncology. It serves as the second site globally to feature a specialized upright patient positioning chair for treatment.
The players
BayCare
BayCare is a prominent health system operating multiple hospitals and specialty facilities across West Central Florida.
St. Joseph's Hospital
St. Joseph's Hospital is a medical center in Tampa that hosts the new Fred J. Woods Radiation Therapy Center.
Mevion Medical Systems
Mevion Medical Systems is a technology manufacturer specializing in compact proton therapy systems for cancer care.
The details
Proton therapy uses charged particles to deliver precise radiation to tumors while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. The facility integrates directly into the existing radiation oncology program at St. Joseph's Hospital to serve the surrounding regional community.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: The BayCare Proton Center opened and began accepting patients.
Market Landscape
This development reflects the broader industry shift toward compact, hospital-integrated radiation technology. By adopting Mevion's compact proton therapy system, BayCare positions itself as a competitive provider of specialized cancer care against regional rivals.
Patients in the region now have local access to proton therapy, which may reduce the need for travel to receive specialized cancer care. The facility's upright chair technology offers a new treatment option for individuals who have difficulty lying flat during radiation.
The takeaway
Proton therapy serves as an important tool for precisely treating complex tumors while protecting adjacent healthy organs. Residents seeking treatment should consult with their oncology specialists to determine if this therapy is an appropriate option for their specific diagnosis.
Further reading
Learn more about local medical developments in the Healthcare section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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