Peconic Bay Medical Center opens dedicated pediatric emergency room

Peconic Bay Medical Center has transformed a former trauma room in its emergency department into a dedicated emergency room for pediatric patients. 

The space was “designed with the full pediatric patient experience in mind” and includes two curtained beds, essential emergency care equipment and convertible sofas that allow parents to stay at their child’s side, the hospital said in a press release. Separation from the general treatment area “enhances both clinical care and emotional support,” the hospital added. Cosmetic updates to the 370-square-foot space create an environment where children can feel safe, calm and cared for, without losing the comforts of home, the hospital said.

“This space gives us the ability to care for children in a way that’s developmentally appropriate and family-centered,” said Dr. Ninfa Mehta, the Riverhead hospital’s chair of emergency medicine. “Whether for short-term observation or urgent treatment, this setup gives our care teams, and parents, greater flexibility and focus.”

According to the hospital, the room is the first of its kind in the area. It became available following the opening of a new trauma room as a part of the emergency department’s expansion. 

“This initiative reflects our continued focus on compassionate, community-driven care,” Peconic Bay Medical Center President Amy Loeb said in a statement. “Transforming this space ensures that children and their families have an environment designed for healing, comfort and peace of mind, when they need it most.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the room was held on Aug. 15. According to the hospital, the project was made possible through a donation from Marie and Emanuel Arturi and is dedicated in memory of their daughter, Daniella, who died at 7 months old from Diamond Blackfan Anemia, a rare disorder. 

“This milestone is a testament to the deep roots of philanthropic support we are so fortunate to have, and we are incredibly grateful to the Arturi family for their generosity in helping us build what’s best for our youngest community members,” Loeb said in her statement.

The hospital is enhancing pediatric services under the leadership of a new chair of pediatrics, Dr. Brenda Marcano-Benfante, who is “fostering a stronger collaboration between emergency care and pediatric services,” the press release said.

“Children deserve the highest standard of care at every stage of life, especially in times of emergency,” Marcano-Benfante said. “We are committed to ensuring that families across the East End have access to expert pediatric care when they need it most, and this new space is one important step in building a healthier future for our community’s children.”