Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital Established in 1905, SBELIH is Suffolk County’s first voluntary hospital.

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital (SBELIH) - Your community hospital since 1905 - now part of Stony Brook Medicine and a designated Primary Stroke Center. Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital (SBELIH) is a 70-bed, full service, community hospital committed to delivering excellence in patient care and meeting all the health needs of the North Fork and Shelter Island. Centers of Excellenc

e include Geriatrics, Ambulatory Surgery, Pain Management, General Surgery, Women’s Health, Plastic Surgery, Psychiatry, Radiology, Men’s Health, Physical Therapy, Addiction Services and Emergency Care, 24/7.

A historic day for healthcare on the North Fork. ❤️Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital recently celebrated its desi...
06/12/2026

A historic day for healthcare on the North Fork. ❤️

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital recently celebrated its designation as a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, community celebration and presentation of the annual Krystal Clear Award.

"This designation was driven by one goal, to improve outcomes and save lives here on the North Fork," said Paul J. Connor, III, Chief Administrative Officer. "Time is brain."

William Wertheim, MD, MBA, Executive Vice President of Stony Brook Medicine, emphasized the significance of the achievement, noting that "every minute matters" in stroke care and that this designation ensures patients can receive rapid evaluation and treatment close to home.

Edward J. Boyd, Esq., President of the North Fork Volunteer Rescue Squad Association and Chair of REMSCO, echoed that message, reminding attendees that "time is not something a stroke victim has to spare."

Guests also heard from stroke survivor Juan Ibanez, who shared his firsthand experience at SBELIH. "Everyone remained calm and professional, which helped keep me calm too," he said. "The medical professionals at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital are some of the finest healthcare professionals I could have ever hoped for."

Additional remarks were shared by Suffolk County Legislator Greg Doroski, Southold Town Board Members Anne Smith and Jill Doherty, and Z. Micah Kaplan, MD, Associate Director of the Eastern Long Island Hospital Foundation, all of whom recognized the importance of bringing advanced stroke care closer to home.

The event also included the presentation of the 2026 Krystal Clear Award to Nancy Williams, PT, DPT, CCI, GCS, Director of Physical Therapy, in recognition of her exceptional clinical insight and swift action in patient care.

Guests and staff had the opportunity to tour the Stony Brook Medicine Mobile Stroke Unit, gaining a firsthand look at the advanced technology and specialized care that help bring rapid stroke assessment and treatment directly to patients when every second counts.

The celebration concluded with the unveiling of SBELIH's Primary Stroke Center designation sign and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, commemorating a milestone years in the making and a significant advancement in healthcare for the North Fork and Shelter Island communities.

“Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital (SBELIH) received the 2026 Healthcare Equality Index LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equity ...
06/11/2026

“Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital (SBELIH) received the 2026 Healthcare Equality Index LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equity Leader designation, and I think this is proof that this hospital is accepting and supportive of the LGBTQ* community, which is meaningful for me as an employee here,” says Leo Brengel, CCA, Outpatient Coder at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital.

For Leo, inclusion isn’t just a value; it’s something he sees reflected in the care provided to patients every day.

“When I applied to SBELIH, I paid attention to how accepting the organization was regarding LGBTQ* policies for both patients and employees,” he said. “I found that medical records included sensitive information and pronouns appropriately. Patients can see that there is no discrimination in their records and that providers are creating safe spaces for them. That was very important to me and made me feel proud to be part of this organization.”

How did Leo get into healthcare?

“I had to pivot and make a career change,” he said. After earning a degree in Theater Arts Design and Technology and planning a career in the arts, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted him to rethink his future. “Healthcare is always important, and after seeing the devastation from the pandemic, I saw the hope that came from it, and it was inspiring. I wanted to be part of something bigger.”

An internship in the Health Information Management department introduced Leo to medical coding and ultimately led to a full-time role at SBELIH.

“As an intern, I learned how to code charts and gained exposure to all different types of medical records,” he said. “I also did a lot of filing.”

Today, Leo enjoys the variety of his work and the opportunity to learn.

“The job is different every day,” he said. “There are always new procedures, new diagnoses, and a wide variety of charts to review. Here, we really see everything.”

“Nothing is created in a vacuum,” he said. “We run on collaboration, and that teamwork means a great deal to me.”

As SBELIH celebrates its recognition as a 2026 LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equity Leader, Leo believes the designation reflects the hospital’s commitment to equitable, compassionate care.

“As a member of the LGBTQ* community, being able to be my authentic self and have my voice and experiences valued at work makes a huge difference,” Leo says. “The affirmation and freedom to 'just be' contribute to both my personal and professional success.”

“Being part of Stony Brook Medicine means we also have resources like the Edie Windsor Healthcare Center and the Stony Brook Gender-Affirming Voice Clinic,” he said. “Representation matters, and it’s meaningful to know that our patients and community members have access to those resources and support.”

For years, a group of Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital employees known as the "Trauma Queens" has embraced a tra...
06/09/2026

For years, a group of Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital employees known as the "Trauma Queens" has embraced a tradition that brings together teamwork, friendship and a little bit of mud.

What started as a team from the Emergency Department has expanded to include nurses, patient care technicians, team members from the Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, Operating Room and Ambulatory Surgery Unit, along with friends and family members who proudly join the group each year on a Sunday in early June.

Their annual tradition is participating in the Muddy Princess 5K at the 4-H Camp in Riverhead, an obstacle-filled mud run that challenges participants to climb, swing, crawl and push beyond their comfort zones.

While the event is undeniably fun, it also mirrors the teamwork that defines their work at the hospital. Throughout the course, teammates encourage one another, overcome obstacles together and provide support when challenges arise. The trust, collaboration and camaraderie that help them care for patients each day are the same qualities that carry them across the finish line.

For the Trauma Queens, the Muddy Princess 5K is more than a race. It is a celebration of the bonds they have built as coworkers, caregivers, friends and family, and a reminder that together, they can overcome anything. ❤️

Join us for an informative and supportive community health presentation on understanding and managing overactive bladder...
06/09/2026

Join us for an informative and supportive community health presentation on understanding and managing overactive bladder with Anne Klassert, MS, RN, ANP-BC, CUNP, Urology Nurse Practitioner with Stony Brook Medicine.

Overactive bladder is a common condition that can affect daily activities, sleep and overall quality of life. The good news is that effective treatment options are available. This educational session will provide practical information to help attendees better understand symptoms, identify potential causes and explore available treatment approaches.

Topics will include recognizing symptoms, lifestyle and behavioral strategies, advances in medical treatment and when a referral to a specialist may be appropriate.

🗓️ Tuesday, June 16
🕑 2 PM
📍 Peconic Landing
1500 Brecknock Road, Greenport

The presentation is designed to be approachable, informative and empowering, with ample opportunity for questions and discussion.

To register or for more information, please call (631) 477-5164 or visit

📰 In the News: Northforker asked Linda Sweeney, vice president of Foundation and External Affairs, what newcomers and re...
06/08/2026

📰 In the News: Northforker asked Linda Sweeney, vice president of Foundation and External Affairs, what newcomers and returning attendees can look forward to at this month’s ELIH Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic event.

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital has brought specialized care closer to home, with considerable thanks to local support. Now in its 34th year, the ELIH Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic, set for Monday, June 8, at Gardiners Bay Country Club (12 Dinah Rock Road, Shelter Island Heights), will continue the hospital’s tradition of raising funds to bolster the services that help and care for so many.

🔗 Click here to read more https://elih.stonybrookmedicine.edu/In-The-News

Celebrate Men’s Health Month with Dr. Jarid Pachter of Stony Brook Medicine at an engaging community discussion focused ...
06/08/2026

Celebrate Men’s Health Month with Dr. Jarid Pachter of Stony Brook Medicine at an engaging community discussion focused on fitness, exercise and healthy aging.

Staying active is one of the most important steps men can take to support their overall health. During this informative presentation, Dr. Pachter will discuss practical ways to build strength, improve endurance, maintain energy and incorporate exercise into everyday life.

Attendees will also learn about the important role physical activity plays in supporting both physical and mental well-being as we age.

🗓️ Tuesday, June 9
🕓 4 PM
📍 Mattituck-Laurel Library
13900 Main Road, Mattituck

There will be time for questions and discussion.

To register or learn more, please call (631) 477-5164 or visit https://elih.stonybrookmedicine.edu/Events/mens-health/register.

We hope you'll join us for this informative community program.

This week, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital celebrated the retirement of Sandi Vissichelli, Supply Chain Manager...
06/06/2026

This week, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital celebrated the retirement of Sandi Vissichelli, Supply Chain Manager in the Support Services Division, after an incredible 41 years of service.

Known for her personal motto, "Make today a great day," Sandi has spent more than four decades supporting the hospital while building strong relationships with colleagues across every department. Her dedication, professionalism and positive spirit have left a lasting impression on countless team members.

During the celebration, Chief Administrative Officer Paul Connor reflected on Sandi’s unique ability to work closely with people throughout the organization and build meaningful connections. Ray Eble, Vice President of Support Services, who worked alongside Sandi for 35 years, shared that while she was an exceptional purchasing professional, she was also a trusted partner, teammate and friend.

As she reflected on her career, Sandi spoke about the many roles she held, the departments she supported and the tremendous changes she witnessed over the years. With both gratitude and emotion, she shared that she will miss the people and experiences that made her time at SBELIH so special.

Surrounded by coworkers, friends, cake and heartfelt speeches, Sandi was celebrated for the remarkable impact she has made on our hospital community.

Thank you, Sandi, for 41 years of service, friendship and dedication. We wish you all the best in your retirement and this exciting new chapter ahead. ❤️

💃Mark Your Calendar — Dancing on the Dock! ❤️Join us for an unforgettable evening of great food, waterfront views, and n...
06/06/2026

💃Mark Your Calendar — Dancing on the Dock! ❤️

Join us for an unforgettable evening of great food, waterfront views, and nonstop dancing as we return to Smuggler's Cove (formerly Porto Bello Restaurant in Greenport) on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 6 PM.

After the incredible energy and fun we shared last year, we’re thrilled to continue the celebration in the same beautiful setting. 🎶 DJ Phil will once again keep the music going and the dance floor packed.

We can’t wait to welcome you back for another amazing night in support of Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital.

For sponsorship opportunities and tickets, visit https://bit.ly/3P5OTaR, link in bio, or call (631) 477-5164. ❤️

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital proudly celebrated the 41st Annual Laura Goodale Memorial Award, honoring a nur...
06/05/2026

Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital proudly celebrated the 41st Annual Laura Goodale Memorial Award, honoring a nurse whose dedication, compassion, and leadership embody the very spirit of the award.

The evening began with a reflection on the remarkable legacy of Laura Goodale, often referred to as the "Florence Nightingale of the North Fork." Laura began caring for patients on the North Fork in 1918 and went on to devote more than four decades to Eastern Long Island Hospital, assisting in surgeries, caring for generations of families, and helping deliver more than 2,000 babies. Her kindness, skill, and devotion to her patients established a standard of excellence that continues to inspire caregivers today.

This year's recipient, Patricia McArdle, RN, MS, CHEP, CIC, Director of Infection Prevention and Control, was recognized by her peers for a career defined by service, expertise, mentorship, and heart. Pat began her journey at SBELIH in 1999 and has served in numerous roles throughout the organization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a trusted leader and calming presence, ensuring infection prevention standards were followed while educating, supporting, and reassuring staff during one of the most challenging periods in healthcare history.

Known for her accessibility, positivity, and sense of humor, Pat is rarely found behind a desk. Instead, she is out on the units teaching, guiding, supporting colleagues, and building connections throughout the hospital. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond SBELIH through her professional leadership, continued education, and dedication to advancing best practices in infection prevention and patient safety.

As Chief Nursing Officer, Annalisa Monahan DNP, MHA, MSN, RN-BC, NE-BC, Chief Nursing Officer, Senior Vice President Patient Care Services, Pat "leads with knowledge, but also humanity." She holds high standards while making people feel supported, keeps patients safe while never losing sight of the people doing the work, and reminds us all that kindness and humor are powerful forms of leadership.

Paul Connor, Chief Administrative Officer, reflected on the many remarkable nurses who have received this honor over the past 41 years and noted that Patricia joins an extraordinary group of caregivers whose contributions have shaped the history and culture of our hospital.

Congratulations, Pat, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you to the Rotary Clubs of Greenport and Southold for their continued partnership in preserving this meaningful tradition.

06/05/2026

Congratulations to Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospitalfor their designation as a Primary Stroke Center and their brand new Mobile Stroke Unit!

Address

SBELIH/201 Manor Place
Greenport, NY
11944

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