Patchogue / Yaphank, NY - September 15, 2016 - Today the President and CEO of Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center (BMHMC) signed the contract with Suffolk County for the purchase of the property of the former John J. Foley Nursing Home in Yaphank, based upon the affirmative vote of the hospital's board of directors.
Richard T. Margulis, President and CEO of Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center, said in today's announcement: "We are taking a significant step forward in furthering our mission to serve our community with the care and services reflective of its diverse needs. I am excited for the growth of our services, for the revitalization of a recognized structure for its best purpose and for being able to help care for even more members of our community".
The 15 million dollar purchase decision marks the end of the contract negotiations and due diligence process for BMHMC and Suffolk County, a dedicated undertaking for both parties. Each step was given serious consideration and ultimately, a mutual understanding of a plan that will enhance the region's changing healthcare landscape.
"Brookhaven is a great community hospital and I am excited we could work together to put the Foley building back into productive use serving the community," Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said. "I know Brookhaven is committed to offer expanded services and I look forward to completing this process and attending a grand reopening in the near future."
It is the intention of BMHMC to work with the County to close on the sale by the end of the year. BMHMC is preparing to file the necessary documents with the State and Town by the first quarter of 2017. If all proceeds on schedule, interior renovations may begin by mid-2017 and complete by 2018.
Margulis added: "We applaud the County for putting the healthcare needs of our community at the heart of their efforts. We are also thankful for the support of the Town of Brookhaven as a driving force in moving the project along."
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine reacted to the decision, saying, "This is good news. The Town is pleased that the County and Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center have been able to come to an agreement. It will good for the community to have BMHMC take over the former Foley building, renovate it, and provide much needed healthcare services."
Robert Calarco, Suffolk County 7th District Legislator, and an activist in keeping the process moving forward, stated: "I am excited that the County and Brookhaven Hospital have reached this point and that the sale is on. Brookhaven Hospital is perfectly suited to take over this valuable asset and ensure that it continues to serve its original intent - to provide quality medical care to our community. "
According to Suffolk County 3rd District Legislator, Kate M. Browning, there is appropriate historical context to this acquisition: "I was a big supporter of the former John J Foley Nursing Home, and with John J. Foley having been a past Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center board member, I think it is more than fitting that BMHMC takes this property over. I am confident BMHMC will provide excellent services to the community."
About Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center (BMHMC): Founded in 1956, Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center is a full-service, 306-bed, acute care, voluntary, not-for- profit community hospital located in Patchogue, New York. BMHMC delivers accessible, high-quality health services in a focused caring and teaching environment while providing health advocacy for the community and people served. For more information about Brookhaven Hospital, call (631) 654-7100 or visit www.BrookhavenHospital.org.