Groundbreaking Initiative: The Al and Jane Nahmad Women’s Cancer Center
The Al and Jane Nahmad Women’s Cancer Center, a new initiative by Baptist Health South Florida, is set to revolutionize cancer care for women. Constructed with the intent of delivering high-quality care and pioneering research, the facility will encapsulate a holistic approach to patient experience, all within a specialized environment tailored to women’s health. The groundbreaking ceremony on September 18 marked a significant milestone, celebrating not only the start of construction but also the commitment of the Nahmad family to women’s wellness and healthcare advancement.
A Commitment to Women’s Health
The Women’s Cancer Center, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026, will encompass an impressive 155,000 square feet within the new Keeley Pavilion on the Miami hospital campus. Reflecting a movement towards gender-responsive healthcare, this center aims to address the specific needs of women undergoing cancer treatment. Notably, women currently represent 65 percent of the patients at Miami Cancer Institute, emphasizing a pressing demand for tailored care that this facility will fulfill.
Baptist Health South Florida’s initiatives underscore a dedication to treating diseases that disproportionately affect women. Michael Zinner, CEO and executive medical director of Miami Cancer Institute, voiced the significance of the center, stating, “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Al and Jane Nahmad, women in our community will have access to a world-class team that will walk this journey with them.” This sentiment conveys more than just gratitude; it reflects a vision of comprehensive, compassionate care that is far-reaching and impactful.
Addressing Growing Demand with Innovative Solutions
The expansion of the Miami Cancer Institute through the construction of the Women’s Cancer Center is pivotal in responding to an increasing demand for innovative cancer care solutions, particularly in a rapidly growing region. As Al Nahmad conveyed during the groundbreaking event, this new facility will expand clinical teams and research capabilities, thereby allowing access to cutting-edge cancer-fighting technologies.
This initiative is critical, as the demand for such advanced treatment options surpasses current resources, not just for residents of South Florida but also extending to patients from Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond. In a region where population growth translates into higher healthcare needs, the Women’s Cancer Center stands poised to play a crucial role in fulfilling these challenges.
The Nahmad Family: Champions of Change
Al and Jane Nahmad’s enduring partnership with Baptist Health is characterized by unwavering support spanning over 20 years. Their recent transformational gift affirms their commitment to elevating women’s healthcare. Jane Nahmad expressed the family’s passion for women’s health advocacy, stating, “Supporting the Women’s Cancer Center from its inception is very meaningful for our family.” This statement encapsulates a personal commitment to change that resonates well beyond their immediate contributions.
Al Nahmad’s leadership role as chair during a pivotal phase in Miami Cancer Institute’s history has contributed to its reputation for fostering transformation in cancer care and research. The Nahmads’ involvement emphasizes the power of philanthropy in healthcare — a beacon of hope that reflects the community’s collective desire for improved health outcomes and experiences.
Baptist Health’s Vision for the Future
Baptist Health South Florida continues to expand its influence as the largest healthcare organization in the region, operating 12 hospitals and employing over 27,000 individuals. The dedication to advancing care through research and innovation is further exemplified by their recent affiliation with Florida International University (FIU). The partnership involves expanding residency programs and moving toward becoming a statutory teaching hospital, reflecting a commitment to education and excellence in patient care.
This growth manifests not just in hospital expansion but also through Baptist Health’s international reputation for specialty care across various medical fields, including cancer, brain and spine, heart and vascular, and orthopedics. Furthermore, initiatives such as the Baptist Health Medical Group and the Baptist Health PineApp — a virtual health platform — illustrate an adaptable healthcare model that meets the evolving needs of patients.
The Spirit of Philanthropy and Community Care
Baptist Health operates as a not-for-profit organization, emphasizing a mission driven by philanthropy and a commitment to medical excellence. This philosophy has garnered recognition, with Baptist Health being named one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For by Fortune magazine, further establishing its role as a community pillar in South Florida’s healthcare landscape.
The impending establishment of the Al and Jane Nahmad Women’s Cancer Center is not merely a construction project; it signifies a broader movement toward addressing women’s specific health challenges, emphasizing research, technology, and community engagement. As the facility takes shape over the next few years, it is poised to emerge as a cornerstone of hope and healing for women navigating the intricate landscape of cancer care.