Where We’re Heading

In close partnership with the community, SUNY is committed to developing a plan for Downstate — supported by the state’s investment of additional targeted capital and ongoing operating funds — that:

▶ Advances Downstate’s unique role preparing excellent, diverse healthcare professionals that will go on to serve the local Brooklyn community upon graduating. SUNY Downstate is the second largest medical school in New York State and graduates the highest number of diverse physicians. We will make major investments in SUNY Downstate’s academic centers and their students by building a new University Center, expanding training in primary care services, and upgrading simulation labs.

▶ Ensures the communities surrounding Downstate can access the quality, affordable healthcare they deserve. We want to fully maintain the quality healthcare services that Downstate hospital currently provides to the community. We anticipate these services will be primarily delivered by SUNY Downstate in other physical locations – including in dedicated space right across the street at Kings County. In addition, the plan will expand SUNY Downstate’s services to address community healthcare needs: state investment will make it possible to support new ambulatory healthcare space that could offer services such as primary care, specialty care, ambulatory surgery, and urgent care – which will be informed by the public engagement process built into the development of the plan.

▶ Addresses the significant health disparities facing New Yorkers. Building on our strong research foundation and reputation, as well as our relationships with community partners like the Arthur Ashe Institute and others, we will redouble our commitment to tackling systemic health disparities by building the Brooklyn Institute of Health Equity. Concordant health care, and the improved health outcomes it brings, requires more highly trained diverse doctors and nurses, which Downstate will provide.