California Protons Cancer Therapy Center's Online Review Report Card

Post chemo and surgery, I received 28 sessions of proton therapy for breast cancer at California Protons. My experience there was nothing short life changing. From the moment I began my journey there, every single person, from the back office staff to the treatment team, made me feel supported, cared for, and genuinely valued as a person, not just a patient. I want to especially recognize Dr. Ian MacEwan, who I truly believe saved my life. Before even scheduling my treatment, Dr. McEwan took the time to personally review all of my medical records. He double-checked not just the reports, but the actual images and tests from two major hospitals, Kaiser and Stanford, and caught something both had missed: that the cancer had spread to my internal mammary gland. His diligence, expertise, and refusal to take anything at face value changed the course of my treatment and my future. Beyond his incredible clinical skill, Dr. MacEwan is also one of the most genuine and compassionate physicians I’ve ever met. He made me feel seen and heard at every appointment, checked in on how I was doing emotionally, and even encouraged me to find moments of joy during a very difficult time. He took the time to explain potential side effects and what to expect so that nothing came as a surprise. When my insurance declined to cover the treatment, Dr. MacEwan filed a grievance. The very next day, they overturned their decision and covered it! And when billing issues arose weeks after my treatment ended, he personally intervened. The issues were resolved within days. His dedication to his patients goes far beyond the treatment room. If you’re reading this, Dr. MacEwan, please know how deeply grateful I am for you. You are a master of your craft, and I’m so blessed that our paths crossed. I also want to highlight Kim on the treatment team, she is an absolute light. Her warmth, energy, and kindness made such a difference during my 28 treatment sessions. Every time I saw her smiling face, I knew it was going to be a good day. She radiates positivity, compassion, and genuine care for every patient who walks through the door. Every single member of the team at California Protons deserves recognition. The back office staff were efficient, professional, and always welcoming, they made the logistics smooth so I could focus on healing. The radiation techs were attentive and gentle, creating an environment that was both reassuring and hopeful. I cannot recommend California Protons highly enough. This team is world-class! Thank you all! 🙏🏼

I was diagnosed with Stage 2 prostate cancer (PSA of 8.7) July13, 2020. My own due diligence quickly revealed that proton therapy was the best option by far - few side or after effects and 98% success rate. I also learned that the leading world oncologist for treating prostate cancer with protons, Dr. Carl Rossi, was just 20 minutes from my home ... at California Protons. He pioneered this treatment in 1996 at Loma Linda and has treated more than 14,000 prostate cancer patients since then. My first treatment was Nov. 10, 2020 (my Marine Corps' birthday) and my final treatment Dec. 18, 2020 (just 5 months from my diagnosis date). Most importantly, I had no side or after effects and have continued to lead an active life (surfing, skiing, biking, flying). In the 5 years since my treatment, I've had 9 PSA tests ... and every single one has been 0.10-0.12. Even my urologist proclaimed me cancer-free. I owe my life to California Protons, Dr. Rossi and the miracle of proton therapy.

I was diagnosed with Stage 2 prostate cancer (PSA of 8.7) July13, 2020. My own due diligence quickly revealed that proton therapy was the best option by far - few side or after effects and 98% success rate. I also learned that the leading world oncologist for treating prostate cancer with protons, Dr. Carl Rossi, was just 20 minutes from my home ... at California Protons. He pioneered this treatment in 1996 at Loma Linda and has treated more than 14,000 prostate cancer patients since then. My first treatment was Nov. 10, 2020 (my Marine Corps' birthday) and my final treatment Dec. 18, 2020 (just 5 months from my diagnosis date). Most importantly, I had no side or after effects and have continued to lead an active life (surfing, skiing, biking, flying). In the 5 years since my treatment, I've had 9 PSA tests ... and every single one has been 0.10-0.12. Even my urologist proclaimed me cancer-free. I owe my life to California Protons, Dr. Rossi and the miracle of proton therapy.

So happy to have found this place

Excellent staff, center and care. Very thankful I got Dr. Rossi, he is kind, helpful and a pioneer in this field. Much less side effects than traditional treatment. 1st psa test is down to normal parameters. I like how they talk about diet as well. The staff in the financial department made this possible for me as well. A great experience all the way around !

I hope they improved since 2017. They fried my bladder and I had to have it removed.

I would not recommend this place, particularly Dr. James Urbanik. Not going to get into the details of my situation but suffice it to say there was a lot that was left to be desired as far as unprofessional staff and mishandling of various issues to include Dr. Urbanik himself. Urbanik also works at UCSD so if you encounter him there I suggest you avoid and find a different doctor. Beware!

I had the best experience at California Protons. I can’t speak highly enough of Dr. Iain MacEwan. I’m from out of town so Zoom pre & post treatment calls were easy & he’d share the screen to review my imaging and explain the results with me so it was easy to understand. His demeanor is so uplifting & positive which is a big breath of fresh air when going through such an uncertain time. Additionally, the techs were all great & the staff came out to celebrate & ring the bell when finished. They made it a special moment & I really appreciated that as my Oncologist office did nothing so It meant a lot that they took the time to celebrate finishing treatment.

Very helpful and friendly staff I'm very pleased with the outcome. Thank You

My mom was diagnosed with triple negative invasive carcinoma breast cancer in November of 2022. She didn’t want to do more damage to her body or immune system with the radiation and chemicals the chemo would cause so she started searching for different treatments options other than the traditional radiation & chemotherapy. She eventually came across the California Proton Cancer Center in San Diego & it was nothing short of a miracle and blessing! My mom’s cancer is gone, she had very minimal side effects from the treatment which is amazing because she has a very weak immune system from an autoimmune condition, 58% kidney function as well as cy-tomegalovirus. She also had no hair loss, she just felt tired after the 2nd week but nothing unbearable she said. The staff there were so kind and supportive during her entire treatment, which really helped keep her spirits high and that was so important for her as well since she also battles depression and a big part of fighting cancer is staying hopeful and mentally healthy. I am so grateful for California Proton Center and all their staff, thank you guys so much for all you do!!