St. Joseph’s Infusion (IV) Clinic is a lifeline in the community for people with infusion needs. A commitment to improve the patient experience, meet a growing demand, and reduce length-of-stay and emergency department (ED) visits led to its recent relocation within the Health Centre.

The new clinic, made possible through the St. Joseph’s Health Centre Foundation’s oncology fund, is dedicated to Dr. Moishe Davidson, in recognition of his exemplary work and invaluable commitment to our hematology and oncology patients.

A collaborative effort between the Oncology, Ambulatory Care Centre, and Redevelopment teams brought this project to fruition, and patients started using the new space on the first floor of the Morrow wing in August.

“The clinic is bigger and brighter for our patients, and has more space for the clinical team to deliver care,” says Jennifer Spencer, patient care manager, Medicine.

The clinic, which conducts both infusion therapies and transfusions for patients referred primarily from the Oncology and Haematology programs, features an open concept layout and large windows to bring natural light into the treatment areas. The larger space accommodates more patients and promotes a safer work environment.

Before its relocation, the clinic had six treatment chairs, including two in the hallway, and was open three full days and two half days per week. There are now eight chairs and the clinic will operate five full days every week.

Jean Barber says the new area has improved her experience. “I’ve been coming to this clinic every two weeks since 2013. The old space was over-crowded and noisy – it was right beside an elevator in a busy hallway,” said Barber.

“The new clinic is beautiful! It’s quieter and overlooks Lake Ontario. The new furniture is more comfortable, and the chairs are more spread out.”

Barber’s bi-weekly appointments run between two and four hours each, which underscores the importance of a soothing environment. As a retired social worker, she also noticed how the new space enables safer care.

“The staff are always even-tempered and obliging but I know it was really difficult in the tight quarters with all the chairs, IV poles, and equipment they use. It feels much safer for everyone now.”

Spencer is proud of the new space. “It’s been a real team effort. We’ve created capacity to offer more timely access to our patients. We can now minimize how often we redirect outpatients to the ED for urgent IV needs, explore ways to expand services, and improve the patient experience.”