Senator Parker Urges Congress for $1 Billion in Funding for SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Medical Center

Brooklyn, NY – In efforts to support the transition of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Medical Center into a predominantly outpatient facility, State Senator Kevin Parker has called on Brooklyn’s Congressional delegation to secure an allocation of $1 billion in capital funding toward this end. This transition is vital to the future of healthcare in Brooklyn and will enhance patient care through the development of state-of-the-art outpatient services, pioneering medical research and educational excellence. 

"The transformation of SUNY Downstate is not just a vision; it's a necessity," said Senator Parker, who represents the 21st Senate District. “As Brooklyn continues to grow and evolve, we must adapt our approach to healthcare delivery. This $1 billion in capital funding is critical to ensuring that SUNY Downstate not only meets the current needs of our community but also sets a new standard for outpatient care across the state and beyond." 

In urging the support of his colleagues in government, Senator Parker added: "We have a unique opportunity to redefine what community healthcare looks like and it starts with ensuring SUNY Downstate has the resources it needs to succeed. I urge my colleagues in Congress to recognize the significance of this request and act swiftly to provide SUNY Downstate with the funding it so critically requires."

 Situated in the heart of the most densely populated borough in New York City, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Medical Center has long stood as a beacon of hope and healing. With its rich history of serving the diverse communities of Brooklyn, the hospital's evolution into a mainly outpatient facility is a strategic move to meet the changing healthcare needs of city's residents. 

The funding request comes at a crucial time and aims to spearhead initiatives such as:

 - Extensive renovations and upgrades to existing facilities to accommodate a wider range of outpatient services. 

- The acquisition of cutting-edge medical technology and equipment to enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities. 

- Support for innovative healthcare programs and research projects aimed at improving patient outcomes and community health. 

- Expansion of educational and training opportunities for the next generation of healthcare professionals. 

This billion-dollar funding request is a necessary step toward making this vision a reality.

About State Senator Kevin Parker 

Senator Kevin S. Parker is intimately familiar with the needs of his ethnically diverse Brooklyn district comprising sections of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Kensington, Ditmas Park, Midwood, Flatlands, Canarsie, Georgetown, Old Mill Basin, Mill Basin, Marine Park, and Bergen Beach. A lifelong Brooklyn resident, Senator Parker is the Chairman of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee and a member of several other Senate committees including Finance, Rules, Banks, Internet, and Technology, as well as Budget and Revenue