A Year of Transformation: Inside the New J.T. Clark Family Foundation Ambulatory Clinic

Just over one year ago, Ambulatory Clinic 1 reopened after a complete transformation. What was once a cramped and outdated space is now a bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed clinic that supports better care for patients across New Brunswick.

This reimagined 14,700-square-foot space is more than double the size of the original clinic and was designed with one goal in mind: to ensure every patient receives care in an environment built for comfort, dignity, and safety. Thanks to remarkable community support, this project has set a new standard for outpatient care at the Saint John Regional Hospital.

 

A Space Designed for Patients

 

The moment you walk into the new clinic, the improvements are easy to see.

Wider hallways and larger treatment rooms allow for easier movement of stretchers and wheelchairs. Enhanced lighting and access to natural light create a calmer and more welcoming environment. Updated layouts help reduce congestion, improve workflow, and support privacy in ways the previous space simply could not.

Patients new receive care in rooms that are comfortable and accessible, and staff have dedicated areas that promote efficient, collaborative care. For example, a new call bell system and emergency equipment in every zone contribute to increased safety for everyone who visits.

As Nurse Manager Cathy Wall shared, "You did not just renovate a clinic. You transformed how care is delivered, how patients are supported, and how staff are empowered to do their best work."

 

Meeting the Needs of Thousands

 

More than 45,000 patient visits now take place in the clinic each year, representing over 20 medical and surgical specialties. The new space supports a wide range of services such as dermatology, plastic surgery, respirology, endocrinology, infectious disease, urology, rheumatology, and specialized treatment clinics.

 

Some of the most notable improvements from the past year include:

 

• 4,211 urology visits
• A redesigned layout with exam rooms steps away from dedicated bathrooms has significantly improved privacy and comfort for patients.
• A leading centre for MOHS surgery
• The MOHS Surgical Clinic has doubled its capacity and now operates four days a week. Urgent skin cancer cases are treated within one month, and wait times for lower risk cases have been reduced by half. The program has also become a destination for medical residents who are seeking advanced dermatology training.
• A dedicated hand therapy space
• Occupational Therapists now work in a specialized room designed for splinting, casting, and rehabilitation after hand surgery. This space is located close to the surgeons’ exam rooms, allowing for seamless follow-up and coordinated care.
• A brighter, more supportive Ambulatory Treatment Clinic
• Patients undergoing treatment in the ATC now have access to personal TVs at each chair, a central nursing station that improves safety, and a private room for palliative or isolation needs.

 

A Community Effort

 

The transformation of this clinic was made possible because of the generosity of donors and the commitment of the community. Leading the way was The J.T. Clark Family Foundation Inc., whose support made it possible to complete this significant $12 million project.

For more than two decades, the Foundation has helped strengthen health care, education, and community initiatives throughout the Maritimes. Their contribution to this project reflects their belief in ensuring New Brunswickers have access to the highest standard of care close to home.

 

A New Standard of Care for New Brunswickers

 

One year in, the impact of the new clinic is clear. Wait times are shorter, patient volumes are increasing, and staff have the space and tools they need to provide exceptional care. Most importantly, patients are receiving treatment in an environment that reflects the respect, comfort, and safety they deserve.

Whether you are a patient, a family member, a donor, or someone who cares about the future of health care in our province, this transformation belongs to all of us. Together, we are helping create a healthier New Brunswick.

Thank you for being part of this important milestone.

 

View our full annual impact report HERE