We just received this notice from the New York State Nurses Association:
Hundreds of our community’s most vulnerable residents rely on inpatient psychiatric care at Long Island College Hospital. In a few days, we fear the unit will be completely closed because of Downstate’s inaction in transfering and recruiting psychiatrists. Even though, well experienced, qualified psychiatrists have offered to staff the unit, Downstate has failed to fill positions.
Downstate’s inaction is especially troubling in light of the boro-wide shortage of inpatient psychiatric beds and the excellent reputation of LICH’s psychiatric services. The unit, which can care for up to 41 patients is usually full to capacity and offers patients and their families a place where safety and quality care is assured.
Tonight, hospital staff will be holding a vigil to save LICH’s psychiatric services. We will meet at 7:30 PM in front of LICH, 336 Hicks Street. Please join us and kindly forward this message.
