Emergency Department Information Guide
Telephone: 718-630-7185
Lutheran Medical Center has one of the busiest emergency departments (ED) in Brooklyn, treating approximately 66,000 patients a year. Lutheran's emergency services feature a New York State recognized Level I Trauma Center and New York State Department of Health designated Stroke Center which means our surgical and medical experts are available for rapid response when you or a loved one really needs it - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Lutheran is also pleased to offer emergency walk in patients our Quick Care Program, which connects the patient to the doctor in 30 minutes or less on average.
What to expect at the Emergency Department
Visiting the ED can be a confusing time for patients and their families. When you arrive at the hospital, a greeter (navigator) will meet you and let you know how long the wait may be, updating you as necessary. From there, the patient will be evaluated for the severity of their condition, a step called triage. Those with minor conditions may be referred to a physician's assistant for treatment and quick release. Others are treated by a physician and released or admitted to the hospital for further care.
Expansion of the Emergency Department
In 2010, the Emergency Department will undergo a major expansion, which will increase its space and services by 45 percent. The ED expansion will include the increase of treatment bays from 30 to 46 and an additional exam room creating a five-room Quick Care area for our successful triage, treat and release program. The additional bays will allow clinicians to treat sicker patients while the new Quick Care Program will provide treatment for less urgent conditions. The expansion will also include discrete child-friendly pediatric treatment bays. An upgraded radiology suite located on site will bring state-of-the-art technology right into the treatment area facilitating faster turn around time for patients and their families.
Bonnie Simmons, D.O., Chair of Emergency Medicine and Medical Director of Prehospital Care
