Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) has received over $54 million in state funding to implement the Epic Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, marking the largest grant awarded among 22 healthcare institutions across New York State. The funds are part of a broader initiative by Governor Kathy Hochul to support health information technology improvements, cybersecurity upgrades, and telehealth expansion.
The announcement was made on December 12 as part of the Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program IV and V. In total, more than $300 million was distributed to healthcare systems throughout New York. The grants will be managed by the New York State Department of Health and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.
Daniel J. Messina, PhD, MPA, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer of RUMC, commented on the development: “Implementing Epic EHR is a transformative step for our hospital. This investment gives us a game changing system that enhances the high quality care our patients receive at RUMC and throughout our Richmond Health Network offices while at the same time giving our medical staff the tools they need to serve our community more efficiently. Our thanks to Gov. Hochel for partnering with us to improve lives inside and outside our hospital walls.”
Epic EHR is recognized for providing a unified platform that manages patient health information and streamlines clinical workflows. Its features include real-time documentation, integrated order entry, and decision support tools designed to improve communication between departments and allow caregivers to focus more directly on patient care.
Patients at RUMC will also have access to MyChart, Epic’s secure portal that allows users to view their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate directly with healthcare providers.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these investments: “By modernizing our hospitals’ IT infrastructure and protecting patients’ information, we’re strengthening the foundation of healthcare in New York State. These investments will help ensure that hospitals have the tools they need to safeguard patient data, expand telehealth services, and deliver a healthier future for all New Yorkers.”
Healthcare facilities in every region of New York were eligible for funding under this program. Priority was given to providers aiming to modernize their technology infrastructure or enhance security measures related to patient information.
RUMC serves Staten Island’s diverse community as a not-for-profit provider offering emergent, acute, primary care as well as behavioral health services.
