4th FW breaks ground for new medical group clinic

by Airman 1st Class Aaron J. Jenne
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 4th Fighter Wing broke ground for the construction of the new 4th Medical Group Thomas Koritz Clinic here Aug. 12, 2014.

The $53 million construction project features a 106,500 square-foot, energy-efficient facility to replace the existing 4th MDG clinic.

"Today represents a benchmark in the history of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base," said Col. Mark Slocum, 4th Fighter Wing commander. "This facility is going to bring new efficiencies to patient care and customer expectations."

Construction of the outpatient medical facility is scheduled to begin in January of 2015, with completion scheduled for middle to late 2016.

The new facility will be one of the most significant upgrades to Seymour Johnson AFB in the last 30 years, said Slocum.

"The project will bring a brand new, state-of-the-art facility complete with the integrated technology necessary to ensure the health and wellness of the community and maintain a combat-ready and deployable force," Slocum said.

The project will undergo several phases over the next two years, including building construction, transition to the new facility, demolition of the old facility and restoration of the grounds.

The new facility's improvements extend beyond technological capabilities and accessibility. The architects' designs pay homage to aviation history and maximize energy efficiency.

Currently, the total operating cost for all 4th MDG utilities exceeds $30,000 per month. Through the use of natural light and more environmentally friendly practices, the clinic hopes to cut energy costs in half.

According to Slocum, by improving patient flow, space utilization and energy efficiency, the vastly improved facility, in conjunction with its medical professionals, will provide an unrivalled patient care experience.

According to Slocum, by improving patient flow, space utilization and energy efficiency, the vastly improved facility, in conjunction with its medical professionals, will provide an unrivalled patient care experience for more than 37,000 active duty, Reserve, and retired members and their families who use the medical facilities.

"Our new building will house an amazing medical home for our patients, and the 4th Medical Group will continue to deliver ready medics and quality care," said Col. Eleanor Nazar-Smith, 4th Medical Group commander. "This is an exciting day for the 4th Fighter Wing. We're proud of what will be an incredible facility and home to our vital Strike Eagle Medics and the patients they serve."