Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation treatment that uses proton beams to precisely target tumors. Because protons deposit most of their energy at the tumor site and not beyond, this technique reduces radiation exposure to healthy tissues and organs — lowering the risk of side effects. 

• More precise targeting of tumors with less impact on healthy tissue. 
• Possibility of delivering a higher, more effective dose to the tumor.
• Reduced risk of both short- and long-term side effects. 
• Particularly beneficial for complex tumors, tumors close to critical organs, or pediatric cancers.  

Yes. Proton therapy is an established, FDA-approved treatment (used for many years) — not experimental. 

Yes. For many recurrent tumors, proton therapy remains an option and often is the safest radiation approach because of its precision and lower dose to surrounding tissue. 

Yes. Proton therapy is often uniquely suited for pediatric cancers thanks to its ability to limit radiation exposure to healthy, developing tissues — reducing risk of long-term side effects. 

Begin by contacting us. Our intake team will collect your medical records, imaging, and treatment history, then present them to one of our radiation oncologists for review. We’ll guide you through whether proton therapy may be right for you. 

Yes. We collaborate with referring oncologists and medical teams to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care — your full care team remains involved throughout. 

Not necessarily. While many patients come via hospital referral, we also accept self-referrals or referrals from outside providers. We want to make access to proton therapy as simple as possible.

Treatment length varies depending on tumor type, size, location, and clinical plan. Some patients might need just a few treatments (“fractions”), while others may require more — and the total course is tailored to your diagnosis and care plan.  

Yes. Depending on the case and type of cancer, proton therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery. Our team will coordinate scheduling to ensure treatments work together safely and effectively. 

Yes. Before your first treatment, we will take detailed imaging (e.g., CT scans) to map your tumor and plan your proton beam treatment precisely. This planning helps ensure maximal accuracy and safety. 

Many insurance plans — including commercial insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid — cover proton therapy for insurance approved diagnoses. As with any advanced treatment, coverage can vary based on plan benefits. We help you check your benefits and assist with prior authorizations. 

Don’t worry — our financial clearance team will work with you. We often submit supporting clinical documentation and advocacy to help obtain approval when proton therapy is medically indicated.

Yes. If you qualify — or if insurance doesn’t fully cover treatment — we offer support options, sliding-scale assistance, and help navigating payment plans or other financial resources. 

Yes. We welcome patients referred from different states and regions. We aim to make travel and logistics as smooth as possible and can help coordinate necessary arrangements. 

If you live far away, our social work or patient-support teams can help locate lodging options (hotels, short-term rentals) and support arrangements for the duration of your treatment — just let us know during your intake process. 

No. Proton therapy is noninvasive and painless. You won’t feel the proton beam; it is similar to receiving an x-ray. There is no radiation that leaves your body after treatment. 

Side effects vary depending on the tumor location, treatment plan, and individual health history. Common side effects may include fatigue or skin irritation in the radiation path — but compared with traditional radiation, proton therapy often results in fewer and less severe side effects. 

After completing therapy, our care team will provide a personalized follow-up schedule. We will monitor your health, manage any late side effects, and support you on your path to recovery and long-term wellness.