$2M clinical facility dedicated to gastroenterology opens

Edmonton, ON – Capital Health and the University of Alberta have jointly opened the Zeidler Gastrointestinal Health Centre, the new home of the university’s division of gastroenterology.

The 30,000-sq-ft, three-storey building is Canada’s first clinical facility dedicated solely to gastroenterology patient care and research.

A $2-million donation from Midge Zeidler to the University Hospital Foundation funded the development of this new specialized facility.

“We are sincerely grateful to Midge Zeidler for her generous contribution,” says Allan Sawin, chair of the University Hospital Foundation. “The new facility and its multidisciplinary concept will have a tremendous impact on gastroenterology care and research and will help Capital Health and the University of Alberta attract and retain some of the best experts in the field.”

Prior to the opening of the Zeidler Gastrointestinal Health Centre, faculty, physicians, support staff, patient-care facilities, clinical research and diagnostic equipment were in varied locations across the hospital and university campus.

“This incredible new facility allows us to work more efficiently and collaboratively under one roof,” explains Dr. Richard Fedorak, director of the division of gastroenterology at the University of Alberta Hospital. “As a result, we will be able to advance gastrointestinal care and research farther and faster than ever before.”

The new facility accommodates: 100 Capital Health and University of Alberta staff; outpatient consultation clinics; a Gastrointestinal Clinical Trials Centre that assesses and tests new treatments for gastrointestinal and liver disorders; dedicated teaching areas to train scientists and physicians; and faculty, teaching and administration offices and facilities.