2022 Groundbreaking Planned for Relocated St. Thomas Clinic

Residents of St. Thomas and St. John may soon see the start of construction for the St. Thomas East End Medical Center at a new location. The director of the federally funded outpatient center says plans for a new clinic site have been in the works since 2002.

Speaking in a recent interview with the Source, clinic Director Moleto Smith said more space in a new spot near Raphune Hill Road will make room for expanded medical services for children and seniors. “We’re hoping to break ground this year,” Smith said.

The clinic is currently located at Tutu Park Mall and provides general medical, preventive care for chronic ailments, dental, vaccinations, obstetrics, family health, behavioral health care, and more. A staff of 100 employees serves roughly 6,500 patients of low- to moderate-income who pay along a sliding scale.

“The current landlord has been excellent, but there comes a time when you need your own space,” the director said.

St. Thomas East End Medical Center began providing services in 1978 under the name East End Health Center, under the Department of Health.

By 2000 it was renamed the East End Family Health Center by an act of the Legislature. The name St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corp. was established in 2004, when it became a Federally Qualified Health Center, one of a network of health centers serving U.S. states, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.