USF BYRD Alzheimer's Institute
The USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Center and Research Institute is dedicated to the prevention, treatment and cure of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.
The institute is a multi-disciplinary center of excellence at the University of South Florida that provides compassionate family-centered patient care, performs cutting edge research and delivers quality public and professional education. With a state-of-the-art building and a highly qualified team of researchers, doctors, clinicians and educators, the institute is at the forefront of Alzheimer's research and care.
History - “The Byrd”, as we affectionately call it, was established in 2002 by the state legislature as an autonomous facility dedicated to finding the cure for Alzheimer’s disease. The main catalyst for this ambitious effort came from then House Speaker, Johnnie Byrd, Jr., whose father suffered from the disease. Mr. Byrd recognized early on the devastating effect Alzheimer’s disease had on families (not just the patient); and he was prescient in understanding the national implications should the disease reach epidemic proportions as the population aged.
Over the course of Mr. Byrd’s political tenure, nearly $80 million was committed to construct our home building in Tampa and provide start-up funds for equipment, personnel and other resources. While the Byrd enjoyed many early successes, the State decided to transition control from politicians to academics. Beginning in 2009, all assets of the Byrd fell under the auspices of USF Health. This new partnership provided the scientific resources necessary to support on-going research projects.
In 2017, leadership within USF Health determined that the Neurosciences should become one of our main focal points for study. Dr. Harry van Loveren, Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery and Vice Dean of Clinical Affairs, was charged with creating the first USF Health Neuroscience Institute (NSI) which brought together the strength, talents and resources of five academic programs. The NSI would also include collaborative centers dedicated to specific Brain related diseases. The Byrd, therefore, became the first official “Center” within the NSI and remains the cornerstone of all activities within the Byrd building. Today, the Byrd Alzheimer’s Center and Research Institute is a multi-disciplinary destination for discoveries in Alzheimer’s care, cures and causes.
Patient Care Services - The USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to those with Alzheimer's disease and other memory problems.
Our expertise includes:
- Diagnostic memory assessment and screenings
- Occupational therapy
- Driver safety and assessment
- Supporting patients and their families
At the USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Center, patients do not need a referral to make an appointment with our physicians or clinical providers (unless required by your insurance). We accept patients who are showing signs of memory loss, dementia or early stage Alzheimer's disease.
At the appointment, patients will receive a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is determined, our expert team of clinicians and faculty provide ongoing treatment and symptom management that may include clinical services or support from other specialists.
As part of an academic medical center, we are also involved in groundbreaking clinical research. Participation in a study is not required to be seen at the Byrd Alzheimer's Institute.
We also understand the impact Alzheimer’s has on the entire family. We conduct monthly support groups and caregivers workshops to provide families with the knowledge and skills to help them provide the best care for their loved one. Please visit our Caregiver Page for more information.
