MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center has announced the groundbreaking for installation of the MEVION S250-FIT Proton Therapy System™ at the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center, a major advancement that will make the hospital the first in New Jersey and among only four institutions in the nation to offer this cutting-edge cancer treatment.
The MEVION S250-FIT is the first and only proton therapy system designed to fit seamlessly into a standard radiation therapy vault, significantly reducing the size, cost, and complexity of proton therapy while expanding access for patients. The new system is expected to be operational in 2026.
Proton therapy represents a major advancement in radiation oncology. Unlike traditional radiation, which uses photons, proton therapy employs charged particles to deliver more precise treatment. This accuracy helps protect healthy tissue and vital organs — such as the brain, heart, and lungs — while effectively targeting tumors and improving patient outcomes.
Research trials have demonstrated that proton therapy achieves similar survival rates to traditional radiation therapy, but with fewer side effects, such as malnutrition in the treatment of head and neck cancers.
Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the MEVION S250-FIT system enhances these benefits with advanced features, including HYPERSCAN® Pencil Beam Scanning for Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy (IMPT) with a proton MLC for ultra-precise delivery, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The system also incorporates upright patient positioning and a large-bore diagnostic CT from Leo Cancer Care for real-time image guidance and adaptive therapy.
“With this innovative proton therapy system, we are taking a transformative step in advancing state-of-the-art cancer services for our patients and our community, and further arming our exceptional clinical teams to provide the highest-quality care,” said Trish O’Keefe, PhD, RN, Senior Vice President, Atlantic Health and President, Morristown Medical Center.
“As the clinical benefits of, and indications for, proton therapy continue to expand, the addition of the MEVION S250-FIT proton therapy system is an achievement that highlights Atlantic Health’s dedication to innovation and personalized cancer care,” said Eric Whitman, MD, FACS, System Medical Director, Cancer Care. “It’s incredibly exciting to help usher in a new era of cutting-edge radiation oncology services that will improve the treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.”
More than $12.5 million in donor support made it possible for Atlantic Health to bring this technology to the community. Lead donors include the Margaret A. Darrin Charitable Trust; The Ferreira Family; Gagnon Family Foundation; The Carl J. Goldberg Family Charitable Fund; Douglas M. Noble Family Foundation; Robert and Catherine Tafaro; and the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center.
As the philanthropic arm of Morristown Medical Center and Goryeb Children’s Hospital, the Foundation for Morristown Medical Center inspires community philanthropy to expand programs and services, enhance clinical education, and prioritize excellence in patient care.
