Governor Hochul Announces $26 Million to Expand and Modernize Emergency Department in Binghamton

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that United Health Services has been awarded a total of $26 million to conduct a massive overhaul of the emergency department at Binghamton General Hospital that will also modernize and expand its behavioral health facilities to meet the evolving needs of the community. The project will relocate the existing Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) to the second floor of the hospital, which will allow it to triple in size from its existing configuration.

"All New Yorkers deserve access to high-quality medical care, and this investment will transform the way Binghamton General Hospital provides both physical and behavioral health treatment in the Southern Tier," Governor Hochul said. "This project represents our full commitment to modernize our healthcare services and to ensure these facilities also have space to provide top-notch services to anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis."

The $25 million in capital funding will help United Health Services construct a new 27,650-square-foot emergency department that will include 30 beds in private rooms and a greatly expanded waiting area. The modernization project will also build two resuscitation bays and a flex area for behavioral health evaluation and treatment.

The Office of Mental Health previously awarded the project $1 million in capital funding to improve the milieu of the existing CPEP and expand capacity. The unit provides psychiatric emergency services to more than 5,500 children and adults annually from an eight-county region.

The project will also relocate the existing CPEP from its location in the emergency department to a separate space on the second floor of the building, tripling its size and incorporating a large waiting area that is lacking in the existing unit. The new 14,400-square-foot space will feature a new, private entrance separate from the emergency department, 12 extended observation beds, and separated spaces for voluntary and involuntary patients.

Binghamton General's CPEP is among 21 programs and three satellites operating statewide. These programs provide treatment in a safe and comfortable environment for individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis, including those with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, intellectual and development disabilities, and medical conditions.

OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, "CPEPs serve as a primary entry point into the mental health system for individuals seeking crisis treatment. The investment to expand and modernize Binghamton General's program will enable this hospital to enhance safety, increase capacity, and above all, greatly improve the experience of the people receiving treatment. This funding reflects Governor Hochul's steadfast commitment to investing in healthcare to meet the evolving needs of communities across our state."

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, "This investment will help ensure that patients in the Southern Tier receive care in a modern, safe and supportive environment designed to meet their needs. By expanding emergency department capacity and significantly enhancing behavioral health services, Governor Hochul is strengthening the healthcare services communities depend on and improving access to critical care for generations to come."

State Senator Lea Webb said, "Mental and overall healthcare access continues to be a challenge across our state and in communities like mine which has been exacerbated by the dangerous federal cuts to programs like Medicaid. Just because funding is cut does not mean the need for care decreases. Our $26 million investment in Binghamton's United Health Services location means improved Emergency Room conditions and that more people in our area will have access to quality and comprehensive mental healthcare. Thank you to Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Cousins and Speaker Heastie, to DOH Commissioner McDonald and OMH Commissioner Sullivan, the staff at UHS, my colleague Assemblymember Lupardo and everyone involved in bringing us to this significant moment today for our community and region."

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, "Governor Hochul's announcement today regarding Binghamton General Hospital is welcome news for our community. Tripling the size of the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) with a separate entrance and waiting area, will provide dignified care for the thousands of people seeking treatment. This, along with a modern and larger emergency department will create an environment that prioritizes patient comfort and safety. I sincerely appreciate the Governor's support for this much needed expansion, which will provide more appropriate triage and treatment for all patients arriving in need of care."

Binghamton Mayor Jared M. Kraham said, "This is a historic investment in the South Side of Binghamton. Binghamton General Hospital has served our community for generations, and this project makes sure it's prepared for the next generation with a cutting-edge facility residents deserve. Thank you to Governor Hochul and UHS for believing in Binghamton and ushering in a new era of healthcare for our residents."

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said, "This is a major investment in the health and well-being of our community. Expanding and modernizing the emergency department while tripling the space for psychiatric emergency services will help ensure people can get the care they need, whether they're facing a medical emergency or a mental health crisis. We're grateful to Governor Hochul for making these investments in our region and to UHS for continuing to improve healthcare for people across Broome County and the Southern Tier."

United Health Services President and Chief Executive Officer John M. Carrigg said, "We are deeply grateful to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul for this $26 million investment in the health of our community. This funding will allow us to build an emergency and behavioral health environment that puts safety first for our patients and the team members who care for them. Everyone who comes through our doors at United Health Services Binghamton General Hospital deserves to feel safe, respected and cared for and this project will help make that vision a reality."