Saint Peter's Healthcare System of New Brunswick, New Jersey, has expanded and modernized its Family Health Center through a $12 million project. The state of New Jersey provided $5 million of that amount.
Many of the center's patients are among greater New Brunswick's most vulnerable — about 90% of the center's patients are uninsured, insured under Medicaid or charity care programs. Saint Peter's President and CEO Leslie D. Hirsch said in a release
that the health center does not just provide clinical care; it also addresses the social determinants of health.
Under the modernization project, the center expanded and upgraded adult, pediatric and women's health exam rooms; added a new on-site outpatient laboratory; expanded behavioral health; created a large physical therapy space; renovated the reception area;
and updated infrastructure. To reduce food insecurity among its patients, as part of the construction the health center is launching The Saint Peter's Market. It is stocked with fresh produce and nonperishable food, as well as personal care items
including diapers, wipes, and hygiene products.
Specialty offerings at the center include a short-term acute partial-hospitalization unit for youth with behavioral health issues, a child protection center and a behavioral health program for expectant moms.