Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center has opened a new $18 million unit for patients undergoing cellular therapy and stem cell transplantations for blood cancers and other complex cancer treatments.
Located in Baptist Medical Center's Weaver Tower, the unit has 24 patient rooms, a meditation room for patients and their loved ones, and a family lounge with a kitchen and dining area. A rehabilitation space has stationary bikes, a treadmill and weights.
"Patients receiving these lifesaving treatments often require specialized inpatient monitoring and care," said LeeAnn Mengel, vice president and administrator at Baptist MD Anderson. "Every aspect of this new unit reflects thoughtful, patient-informed design geared towards safety, comfort and the best
possible outcomes."
Because stem cell transplantationand cellular therapies temporarily suppress the immune system, the unit has handwashing and temperature-check stations, an advanced ventilation and air filtration system, among other protective measures.
The unit was supported by parent Baptist Health and an endowment established by patients Patricia and Bob Paquette.
"Patients with cancers that are difficult to treat or were once thought of as incurable are living longer with an improved quality of life," said Dr. Maxim Norkin, a hematologist oncologist and medical director of the Robert L. and Patricia A. Paquette Cellular Therapy Program. "We are proud to offer these life-changing treatments."
Dr. Tom Dragovich, a medical oncologist and head of Baptist MD Anderson's division of cancer medicine, said such dedicated units "provide the specialized environment needed to deliver these advanced therapies today while supporting the discoveries that will shape the future of cancer care."
Baptist MD Anderson launched its cellular therapy program in 2025, with stem cell transplantations expected in summer 2027. Such treatments "were once available only at select academic medical centers," said Dr. Bill Putnam, medical director of Baptist MD Anderson.
For more information, go to BaptistMDAnderson.com/CellularTherapy.
The new unit is among the latest developments in Northeast Florida's burgeoning health care industry. Here are some more medical updates for the area.
Baptist Health
Baptist Health has purchased a 22-story medical outpatient building at 841 Prudential Drive, the first high-rise in downtown Jacksonville, where it has been a tenant for about 20 years.
The purchase price for theformer Prudential building — now called Southbank Medical Pavilion — was $65 million.
"We recognize the value of the building and developable land, its proximity to our tertiary campus on the Southbank, and its role in supporting patient care, our workforce and health system operations," according to a Baptist statement. "Although future plans are still being evaluated, we expect to make infrastructure upgrades that improve the tenant experience and support the building’s long-term use."
Built in 1955 by KBJ Architects for Prudential Insurance, the building has 500,000 square feet of rentable space.
"We recognize the building’s historic significance and its purchase reinforces our continued investment in the local community while helping preserve an important part of Jacksonville’s skyline," the Baptist statement said.
Florida Eye Specialists
Florida Eye Specialists, a multi-specialty ophthalmology practice, will open its new Fleming Island location on Sept. 8.
The office is at 1540 Business Center Drive near County Road 220. Services include general ophthalmology and specialized care for cataracts, glaucoma and dry eye.
Dr. Mark D. Paauw, a cataract and glaucoma specialist, is the new office's primary ophthalmologist. He provides medical and surgical glaucoma.
"One of the things I value most about ophthalmology is the opportunity to build lasting relationships withpatients while helping them protect their vision and quality of life," he said. "Having this location in the communitywill make it easier for patients to receive specialized care close to home."
Dr. Rajesh K. Shetty, CEO and managing partner of Florida Eye Specialists, said, "Opening our Fleming Island location is an important step in making advanced eye care more accessible to patients throughout Clay County. This community continues to grow, and we are proud to provide patients with convenient access to trusted specialists, proven technology and personalized care."
To schedule an appointment, call (904) 564-2020 or go to floridaeyespecialists.com/locations/fleming-island.
Florida Dental Association
Dr. Dan Gesek of Jacksonville has been named 2026-27 president of the Florida Dental Association, a professional organization representing Florida-licensed dentists.
Gesek is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who has practiced in Jacksonville for about 30 years. He has held several leadership positions at the local, state and national levels, including president of the Jacksonville Dental Society and member of the Florida Board of Dentistry.
Send Northeast Florida health care industry news to bcravey@jacksonville.com.
Beth Reese Cravey has been a reporter for The Florida Times-Union for 45 years, currently specializing in nonprofits and health. She can be reached at bcravey@jacksonville.com.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Baptist MD Anderson opens blood cancer unit; and more Healthful News
