Preserving SUNY Downstate - A Community's Fight for Healthcare
Financial Struggles and Building Woes
Earlier this year, the state proposed shutting down SUNY Downstate due to financial difficulties and a deteriorating building. This decision sent shockwaves through the community. However, for now, the shutdown plans have been put on hold. The hospital, located in East Flatbush, serves a diverse population with significant disparities and inequities among Black and brown communities. It is essential that healthcare services remain accessible to those who need them the most.Despite the temporary reprieve, the situation remains precarious. The state has committed to investing $500 million to expand outpatient services in a new $300 million facility. But advocates argue that this investment should be directed towards the existing hospital instead. They believe that the existing infrastructure can be revitalized and made more efficient to meet the needs of the community.
Recommendations from the Community Coalition
Members of the community coalition, Brooklyn for Downstate, have released a report outlining their recommendations. These include reducing bed capacity from 342 to 250 beds to optimize resources. Renovations to the Emergency Department and maternity wing are also crucial to improve patient care. Establishing new urgent care and outpatient centers will provide additional access points for patients. Additionally, maintaining the Kidney Transplant program, which is the only one of its kind in Kings County, is of utmost importance.The Kidney Transplant program at SUNY Downstate serves as a lifeline for many patients. Its closure would have a significant impact not only on this community but on the entire borough. The coalition's recommendations aim to ensure the continued existence and growth of these essential services.
Inpatient Services and Future Plans
Hochul announced plans to move inpatient services across the street to Kings County Hospital – NYC Health + Hospitals, which is public and city-run. While this may seem like a solution, advocates strongly oppose it. They want SUNY Downstate to remain in its current location and continue to serve the community.The state-appointed advisory board will release a plan in 2025 to determine the future of SUNY Downstate. This plan will play a crucial role in shaping the hospital's destiny. Healthcare workers and community members are closely watching these developments and working together to ensure a positive outcome.
Cynthia Walker, a nurse with nearly 20 years of service at SUNY Downstate, emphasizes the importance of the hospital. "We have a lot of disparities and inequities in our community. There's no way we can cut our services again. This is our hospital, and we need to fight for its future."
Matt Leonardo, an analyst who contributed to the report, adds, "SUNY Downstate has unique capabilities and services that cannot be replicated. Its closure would be a great loss to the community and the healthcare system as a whole."