Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute Joins AACI
The Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI) is a leading body that shapes national cancer policy while enhancing access to care through collaborative initiatives.
TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa General Hospital (TGH) is excited to announce that its Cancer Institute has been accepted into the distinguished AACI. This membership serves as a testament to the institute's dedication to excellence in cancer research, treatment, education, and community outreach.
As a member of the AACI, the TGH Cancer Institute assumes a critical role in influencing national cancer policies and enhancing patient access to vital care services. By collaborating with other cancer centers, it aims to elevate the overall standard of cancer care across the community. This prestigious recognition comes only four years after the establishment of the cancer institute by Tampa General, which stands as the sole academic health system in the region.
The requirements for AACI membership are stringent, mandating that cancer centers demonstrate diverse clinical disciplines tied to patient care. This includes a comprehensive suite of cancer clinical trials, active involvement in community education, screening programs, and a strong commitment to oncology advancements.
Furthermore, membership with AACI enables the TGH Cancer Institute to engage in meaningful national dialogues around cancer policy and share best practices, ultimately leading to improved cancer care quality across the country.
Dr. Eduardo Sotomayor, the vice president and executive director of the TGH Cancer Institute, expressed enthusiasm about this membership. He noted, "AACI membership signals that a cancer institute is committed not only to excellence in patient care and research but is also part of a larger mission to accelerate progress against cancer. This significant recognition underscores our dedication to establishing a premier cancer institute delivering innovative care throughout the state of Florida and beyond."
Over the short span of its operation, the TGH Cancer Institute has successfully expanded its multidisciplinary programs, attracted leading cancer specialists, and forged partnerships with top research institutions globally. With a focus on personalized medicine, the institute continues to pioneer advanced therapies and clinical trials that give hope to patients in the region.
Dr. Abraham Schwarzberg, the executive vice president, chief of oncology, and co-vice president of Clinical and Translational Research at Tampa General, spoke about the significance of AACI's mission. "As an academic health system, we are proud supporters of the AACI's initiatives to augment the impact of academic cancer centers. Our long-standing partnership with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine allows us to prioritize clinical trials, fundamental science, and translational research collaboratively with other esteemed AACI members. This alliance empowers us to enhance the fight against cancer," he stated.
One of Florida's premier cancer centers, the TGH Cancer Institute benefits from its affiliation with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. According to U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals for the 2025-2026 period, the Cancer Institute is ranked among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide. It provides a comprehensive approach to patient care through innovative therapies, cutting-edge diagnostic imaging solutions, and a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary care model. The institute's commitment to quality is recognized by its certifications from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Quality Oncology Practice Initiative.
The TGH Cancer Institute has also received accreditation from the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy and earned recognition as one of America's Best Cancer Hospitals by Newsweek for its dedication to clinical excellence and patient safety.
For those seeking more information regarding the TGH Cancer Institute and its pioneering role in cancer care, the institute's website provides valuable insights.
About the Association of American Cancer Institutes
The AACI stands as the sole membership organization focused on academic cancer centers. Representing over 100 premier cancer centers in the U.S. and Canada, the association propels the goals of cancer centers forward through enhanced visibility, education for policymakers, and collaboration among cancer institutions to improve cancer care quality.
About Tampa General Hospital
Tampa General Hospital serves as the only academic health system for the Tampa Bay area. With a capacity of 1,529 beds, this nonprofit network offers a diverse range of hospital and outpatient services throughout Florida. Notably, Tampa General holds distinctions as the sole Level I trauma and comprehensive burn care center for 23 counties, ensuring the delivery of world-class medical care.
This health system encompasses Tampa General Hospital, Tampa General Rehabilitation Hospital, Tampa General Behavioral Health Hospital, and more facilities in the region. Recognized as the top-ranked hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 rankings, it excels across multiple specialties, showcasing commitment to patient care and innovations.
Moreover, Tampa General is recognized as the leading adult solid organ transplant center in the nation. As a teaching hospital associated with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, it incorporates advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance patient safety and expedite care processes.
Committed to community health, Tampa General allocated approximately $289.1 million in community benefits to support underinsured patients and local health organizations. It is recognized as a safe-net hospital and operates an extensive network of urgent care clinics, offering residents in the Tampa Bay area access to high-quality health care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AACI?
The AACI is an association dedicated to supporting and advancing the objectives of academic cancer centers in the U.S. and Canada.
Why is TGH Cancer Institute's membership important?
Membership enhances TGH's role in national policy discussions and helps elevate cancer care quality through shared best practices.
How does TGH support community health?
TGH contributes significantly to community benefits by providing financial support for underinsured patients and educational programs.
What distinguishes TGH Cancer Institute?
The institute is recognized for multidisciplinary approaches, innovative therapies, and excellence in patient care.
What are some achievements of TGH?
TGH has ranked among the top hospitals nationwide, is a leading transplant center, and has received accreditations from numerous prestigious organizations.
