NORWALK — Northwell Health’s Norwalk Hospital Tuesday announced the opening of the brand-new Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center, thanks to a $1.74 million grant from the Stamford-based Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation.
The grant supports the enhancement of seven newly remodeled emergency rooms, each designed around a child’s needs and new pediatric equipment. The grant also supports expanded behavioral health resources, including a child life specialist trained to provide therapeutic play, education and reassurance to minimize fear and promote understanding for pediatric patients and their caregivers.
The center, designed for the best possible patient experience, also includes a kid-friendly waiting area with toys, books and a fish tank. The emergency rooms are a one-of-a-kind collaboration in the region with the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk. Each room features a large and unique marine-themed mural representing an imaginative and immersive environment to put children and families at ease.
“The opening of the Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center marks a transformative moment for Norwalk Hospital and the families we serve,” Norwalk Hospital President Peter R. Cordeau said. “This center brings world-class pediatric emergency care closer to home, ensuring children in our community receive the highest level of specialized treatment in moments when it matters most.”
He added that the hospital is very grateful to receive support from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation to expand access, elevate care and strengthen its commitment to the health and well-being of its child patients.
The Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation, which started in 2001, has led to more than $1.3 billion in funds to public 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
The Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center will also provide care for kids needing short observation stays from 24 to 48 hours for common illnesses such as asthma, croup and dehydration. The Cohen Pediatric Emergency Center at Norwalk Hospital is staffed with specialists seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Outside of those hours, the Norwalk Hospital Bauer Emergency Care Center will continue to provide high-level pediatric care for children 24/7.
