By Dan Hounsell, Senior Editor, Facility Market

Children’s Specialty Hospital, a first-of-its kind in New York State for those with complex conditions like autism, recently broke ground. The hospital will provide the first comprehensive place of diagnosis, clinical assessment, crisis evaluation, and evidence-based, targeted treatment for medical, physiological, and behavioral issues related to complex conditions.

The hospital building will also include the state-of-the-art Alemany Learning Center to expand the education of professionals in this field, and expanded office and research space for The Center’s already robust research and development arms.

New York State does not have any short-term, inpatient assessment programs for children with complex developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders and medical frailties. As children with complex disabilities become adolescents, they might require additional support, both in classrooms and at home. Teachers and parents might find it more challenging to engage and support them, especially if they present challenging or maladaptive behaviors.

The Center is building a Children’s Specialty Hospital to provide a short-term, clinical assessment program with the goal of better diagnosing underlying problems that affect behavior and learning. The Children’s Specialty Hospital will conduct comprehensive medical, behavioral, and clinical assessments over a maximum of six months. Staff will engage parents, caregivers, and school district personnel as partners in the process. The hospital, scheduled to open in 2022, is expected to save New York State millions of dollars each year.