The groundbreaking proton therapy facility in Valencia takes shape with the construction of a high-security bunker, set to revolutionize cancer treatment by 2027.
The Valencian Community is taking a monumental step forward in advanced cancer care with the start of construction on a state-of-the-art bunker for the region’s first Proton Therapy Center, a public infrastructure project designed to deliver high-precision oncology treatments, particularly for pediatric patients and those with complex tumors. The Conselleria de Sanidad has initiated the concreting of the foundation slab for the proton therapy bunker, a critical component of a 5,500-square-meter facility adjacent to the Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Concurrently, work has begun on an underground tunnel linking the new center to the hospital, while recruitment and training of specialized staff for proton therapy are underway, marking significant progress toward transforming Valencia into a hub for cutting-edge medical innovation.
The proton therapy bunker, engineered for radiological safety, features a robust foundation comprising nine layers of reinforced concrete to contain ionizing radiation and ensure safe proton generation. The construction process is divided into three phases: the foundation, followed by the walls, and finally the ceiling. The bunker’s walls, measuring 2.5 meters thick, are designed to meet stringent nuclear safety standards, safeguarding both patients and staff during proton therapy treatments. This meticulous design underscores the project’s commitment to precision and safety, critical for the advanced technology used in proton therapy.
Located on a plot next to La Fe Hospital, the proton therapy facility is on track to complete its first phase by May 2026, enabling the installation of the proton therapy equipment. Donated by the Fundación Amancio Ortega, the equipment—valued at €29.04 million—is part of Spain’s National Health System’s Proton Therapy Implementation Program. The installation and calibration of this advanced technology are expected to be finalized by the summer of 2027, when the center anticipates treating its first patients. The Generalitat Valenciana is funding the €21.5 million construction of the building, as well as ongoing maintenance, operational costs, and staffing, demonstrating a significant public investment in proton therapy infrastructure.
Specialized Training for Proton Therapy Experts
The Proton Therapy Center will employ a dedicated team of 100 specialists, including 39 new hires, all of whom are participating in a comprehensive training program developed by La Fe Hospital. This program includes international and national placements to ensure staff are proficient in proton therapy techniques. Additionally, specialists are undergoing training to become certified supervisors of radioactive facilities, a requirement for operating proton therapy equipment safely. This focus on expertise ensures that the center will deliver world-class care, positioning Valencia as a leader in advanced oncology treatments.
Beyond its technical capabilities, the Proton Therapy Center has been designed with a human-centered approach to enhance the experience of patients and staff. The facility will feature a central green courtyard and thoughtfully designed spaces to promote emotional well-being, reflecting a commitment to holistic care. These elements aim to create a calming and supportive environment for patients undergoing proton therapy, particularly children and those with serious conditions, as well as for the medical professionals delivering their care.
Proton therapy, an advanced form of external radiotherapy, offers unparalleled precision in targeting tumors, making it especially suitable for pediatric patients and complex cases such as brain, head and neck, spinal cord, lung, ocular tumors, sarcomas, and re-irradiations. By minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues, proton therapy reduces the risk of long-term side effects, offering a safer alternative to traditional radiotherapy. This technology’s ability to deliver targeted treatment is expected to significantly improve outcomes for patients with challenging diagnoses, enhancing the quality of life for those undergoing proton therapy in Valencia.
The project represents a landmark collaboration between public and private entities, with the Fundación Amancio Ortega’s donation covering the cost of the proton therapy equipment and the Generalitat Valenciana overseeing the construction and operational framework. The integration of the center with La Fe Hospital via the underground tunnel will streamline patient care, allowing seamless coordination between the hospital’s existing services and the new proton therapy facility.
As construction progresses, the Proton Therapy Center is poised to become a cornerstone of Valencia’s healthcare landscape, offering hope to patients and families while reinforcing the region’s commitment to innovation in medical treatment.
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© Valencia’s Proton Therapy Center Begins Construction – Valencian.es
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