A Fabulous New ER at Northern Westchester Hospital

April 13, 2011

A Fabulous New ER at Northern Westchester Hospital

You may recall my blog about my emergency room experience when I needed stitches to repair a gash I received from a head butt by my beloved Frenchie, Francesca. I went to my wonderful neighborhood medical center, Northern Westchester Hospital, and was stitched up very nicely. You may also recall that I commented on the outdated floral ceiling border in the treatment room. Well, I am very happy to say that on March 23^rd, the hospital opened a brand new, state-of-the-art ER, called the Mary & David Boies Emergency Department, of which I am a contributor. This new facility is a Planetree design, a global catalyst and leader that promotes the development and implementation of innovative models of healthcare that focus on healing and nurturing body, mind, and spirit.

To celebrate the opening of this fantastic facility, I, along with my friends the Schwartz’s and the Fleischer’s, hosted a champagne reception to introduce our guests to the new ER. It’s interesting to note that not too long ago, one would avoid the ER at all costs and it’s comforting to know that now, in the event of an emergency, Northern Westchester Hospital offers the best of medical care for those in need, along with a comforting and supportive environment for their loved ones who wait. The tasty food for the occasion was provided by the new chef at the hospital and it showcased how they are also making inroads in their food service – food and nutrition is now a focal point of patient care.

: The new entrance with a new facade leads into the state-of-the-art facility.

: This is the very pleasing walk-in entrance to the new Mary & David Boies Emergency Department.

: The carpeted waiting area is equipped with comfortable chairs. Big windows allow for lots of natural light.

: Concierges sit at the reception desk, meeting people as they come in. There is a separate entrance for people who arrive by ambulance. Notice the natural healing elements – a soothing slate floor, decorative glass panels, and plenty of warm wood.

: In another area a television plays The C.A.R.E. Channel – http://www.healinghealth.com/ – offering those waiting soothing music and scenery from nature.

: A meticulous cleaning staff keeps the place clean and tidy. Behind the desk are two concierges and an ER nurse.

: A fun play room for children is found right off of the main waiting room. Notice the calming ceiling with sky panels.

: At the champagne reception – Lisa Schwartz speaking – Hospital president – Joel Seligman, Russell Hernandez co-owner of The Bedford Post and his wife

: Jeff Moskowitz listening intently

: Richard Gere and wife Carey Lowell – co-owners of The Bedford Post

: More supporters and board members of the new emergency room, including Mark Schwartz

: Nancy and Jerry Kohlberg and Guy Wyser-Pratte

: A private family room inside the ER – Families can wait here quietly while loved ones are being treated. Through the windows is a view of the serenity garden.

: A computer and phone for families to use, off camera a sink and coffe machine

: One of twenty-six private treatment rooms looking out onto the serenity garden.

: A very modern decontamination area – Rubber curtains would come down to isolate the user – The water drains into a catch area so it can be disposed of properly.