In June 2013, Albany Medical Center and Saratoga Hospital entered a partnership to bring cutting-edge health care closer to the homes of Capital Region residents.
The vision was to provide surgical, urgent, and specialty care outside the hospital and in a place that was more comfortable and convenient. Today, officials say Malta Med Emergent Care is a pivotal point of access to the broad scope of services throughout the Albany Med Health System, including those provided by the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center and the region’s only Level 1 trauma center.
The system practices more of the most advanced medical specialties than any other local health care network, according to Albany Med.
“In its first year, Malta Med Emergent Care saw more than 28,000 visits, underscoring its role in the community,” said medical director Dr. Joanne McDonough. “Today, we are providing care for more than 45,000 visits annually, offering a reliable alternative to the emergency department for all but the most critical conditions.”
The success of Malta Med fueled expansion. The complex now includes facilities for same-day orthopedic surgery in collaboration with Capital Region Orthopedic Associates through the Center of Advanced Ambulatory Surgery, which opened on the Malta Med campus in 2021. Care and treatment for oncology, physical therapy, and other services are also performed at Malta Med.
“We are committed to meeting the diverse health care needs of our community,” McDonough said. “For emergency medicine, our round-the-clock team ensures that patients receive the highest level of attention and expertise, reinforcing our dedication to their well-being.”
Advanced technologies at Malta Med allow physicians to make accurate diagnoses and initiate timely treatment. “Our access to technologies such as CT, ultrasound, x-ray, as well as an on-site pharmacy and lab is unlike any ambulatory facility in the region, enabling our physicians to deliver prompt care,” explains McDonough said. “Should our patients require a higher level of specialized treatment, we can seamlessly transport them to one of our Albany Med Health System hospitals, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care they need.”
“We are immensely grateful for the trust and support we have received over the years,” said Saratoga Hospital chief medical officer Richard Falivena. “As we reflect on our journey, we look forward to the future, where we will continue to deliver the highest standards of care and compassion. Malta Med stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and to the Albany Med Health System.”
The Albany Med Health System is the region’s only locally governed health care system. It includes four hospitals, Albany Medical College, the Visiting Nurses, and more than 900 physicians caring for patients in more than 125 locations.