by Craig Baize, Vitals contributor

Sutter Health took a big step forward in advancing healthcare in the Greater Central Valley. On July 30, Sutter leaders and employees, elected officials and chamber representatives gathered at a ceremonial groundbreaking for a training and teaching facility in Modesto.

The event celebrated the beginning of the work to create a nearly 20,000-square-foot clinic where resident physicians in Sutter Memorial Medical Center’s Family Medicine and Internal Medicine residency programs will collaborate with Gould Medical Group physicians to  offer primary care.

“The GME Continuity Clinic represents a tremendous step forward in our mission to provide comprehensive training for medical residents in our programs. It will enhance their educational experience and improve access to high-quality care for our community,” said Dr. James Kruer, program director for the internal medicine residency program.

Located in an existing building at 1011 Sylvan Ave., the space for the primary care clinic will undergo significant improvements to meet the specific needs of the residency programs. Sutter officials are aiming for a spring 2025 opening.

Dr. Raeleigh Payanes, director of the family medicine residency program, highlighted the benefits of creating a place for new physicians to interact with patients. “The clinic will allow medical residents to bring their unique experiences to help compassionately care for those in the Central Valley,” she said.

There are dual benefits to the clinic. “Medical residents collaborating with physicians at this new clinic increases our capacity to serve patients,” said Amber Campbell, ambulatory CEO in Sutter’s Greater Central Valley. “It’s a win-win, providing our residents with a top-tier training environment and offering more accessible care to our community.”

Additionally, increasing the number of providers working together will mean more eyes on each patient and more teamwork on care plans, leading to comprehensive and coordinated care strategies that benefit patients.

“Once opened, the GME Continuity Clinic will stand as another example of our dedication to improving healthcare access in Modesto,” said Gino Patrizio, Sutter’s president of the Greater Central Valley. “By integrating resident education with patient care, we are fostering a healthcare model that benefits everyone. I want to recognize and commend the commitment of our teams, from planning to construction to operations, as they work to bring the clinic to fruition.”