University of Florida Health Proton Therapy Institute

The primary activity of the Institute is to provide Proton and conventional radiation Therapy cancer treatment in facilities located in jacksonville, florida.see schedule o for additional information. Since commencing clinical operations in august of 2006, the Institute has continued to focus its resources on fulfilling its tripartite mission of clinical service, research and education. To date, the Institute has provided cancer treatment services to over 16,300 patients. The clinical programs focus on multiple disease sites including, but not limited to: cancers of the brain and central nervous system, prostate, soft tissues, eye, breast, lung and pancreas. The Institute currently operates the world's largest pediatric program utilizing Proton Therapy. Supplemental resources dedicated to the pediatric population include: a full-time play therapist, a pediatric social worker and art Therapy staff. Also, pediatric patients are provided various educational and "fun" events supported by: the local zoo, science lady, fire department, etc.a cornerstone of the Institute's mission includes clinical research. Currently, the Institute has a total of 77 clinical trial studies that have been completed or are currently open for patient accrual. Approximately 97% of the Institute's patients participate in one of the clinical trial programs or outcome studies. Likewise, the Institute has developed multiple educational opportunities including post graduate fellowship training programs in Proton radiation, pediatrics and in medical physics. Also, the Institute provides onsite training for several radiation therapist training programs and child life specialist social worker programs.as a cancer center of excellence and accredited radiation oncology center through the american college of radiology (acr), the Institute continued to provide optimal patient care and services. Also, the Institute continues to improve its art-in-medicine program, yoga classes, educational activities, and survivorship program. These programs are aimed to increase the healing environment and culture created at the Institute. Primarily, these programs enhance wellness, relaxation, pain management, and decrease anxiety and stress in patients and caregivers undergoing cancer care at the Institute. The program has been so successful that 99% of patients would definitely recommend the Institute's treatment and services.the Institute is recognized as the world leader in pediatric Proton radiation Therapy and continually provides treatment to patients from many countries around the world as well as many states within the usa. The adult programs are equally recognized for the treatment options and continued cancer research. Currently, the Institute is collecting data on research studies, either for its own mission or participating with other noted medical institutions, such as st. jude's children's hospital, Massachusetts general hospital, etc. In fiscal year 2023 (july 1, 2022 thru june 30, 2023), the Institute's professional staff published 15 studies in major medical publications.