Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital has unveiled its newly renovated emergency department (ED), a $31.3 million reconstruction project that expands the department to 16,168 square feet from the original 9,600 square feet along with 40 beds. The ED at LIJ Valley Stream, a community hospital off the Southern State Parkway along the Nassau-Queens border, can now accommodate 55,000 patient visits annually.
The transformed emergency department has been redesigned with what’s known as a split-flow model that allows staff to triage and assess patients so that they can receive the highest level of care based on the severity of their illness. The rebuilt ED now has more comprehensive imaging capabilities with the addition of two new X-ray suites and a dedicated computed tomography (CT) scanner.
“This new emergency department reflects Northwell’s deep commitment to Nassau County and Queens residents and our belief that everyone deserves access to exceptional health care that’s close to home,” said Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell. “With this investment, we’ve created a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a vital resource, ensuring families have access to comprehensive medical services when they need it most.”
The construction also encompassed a complete renovation of all patient areas, including three isolation rooms, a newly built emergency lobby and a completely new dedicated ambulance entrance with a canopy providing coverage for transporting patients.
“As someone who spent more than 25 years working in emergency medicine, I understand firsthand the critical importance of having a dedicated frontline staff and a modern, efficient emergency department,” said John D’Angelo, MD, EVP and president of Northwell’s Central Market. “This newly expanded facility is a symbol of our dedication to providing both to this community. We are proud of this investment, which we know will help Northwell continue its mission to deliver exceptional care to anyone who walks in these doors.”
Long Island Jewish Valley Stream’s new emergency department features 40 patient beds and patient intake rooms that were added during the renovation. A new air handling unit has been installed to provide necessary air flow to specific areas and adhere to building safety code requirements. A weapons detection system has been installed at the entrance and additional security guards will staff the department to ensure the safety of patients, visitors and hospital staff.
“The emergency department is often the first point of contact with our patients and we have designed this space to ensure that every individual who walks through these doors receives the highest level of care, compassion, and urgency they deserve,” said Jason Tan, RN, president of Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital. “This $31.3 million project has transformed our emergency services with cutting-edge technology, increased capacity and a focus on patient experience. From the addition of a dedicated CT scanner and X-ray imaging to the creation of more isolation rooms and advanced security measures, we are proud to offer a facility that meets the highest standards of care and safety.”
The opening of the new emergency department comes one year after the hospital unveiled a new entrance, façade and lobby. The $12.5 million investment — which included signage identifying the hospital as an orthopedic center — was two years in the making and improved the flow of traffic and patients at the hospital.
Parts of the project are in their final phases of renovation. The final stage is slated to begin in early 2026.
“Our newly renovated emergency department marks a significant step in our commitment to providing exceptional medical care to our community,” said Salvatore Pardo, MD, chair of emergency medicine, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital. “One of the most important phases of the ED renovation was the realization of our Super Track, which allows staff to implement the new ‘split-flow’ model of patient care. Split flow utilizes the new intake rooms, procedure rooms and results waiting areas with recliners. This new model will require training for our doctors, registered nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses on the new process in an innovative manner. With all these changes and advances, we are setting the standard for emergency care.”
