New York Eye and Ear Infirmary

New York Eye and Ear Infirmary (NYEE) is a specialized hospital located in New York City, United States, dedicated to the treatment and research of eye, ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders. It is one of the oldest specialized hospitals in the Western Hemisphere, having been founded in 1820. The infirmary has a long history of providing comprehensive care for patients and advancing the fields of ophthalmology and otolaryngology through pioneering research and medical education.

History

The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary was established in 1820 by Dr. Edward Delafield and Dr. John Kearny Rodgers. It began as a small dispensary in lower Manhattan, aimed at providing care for the city's indigent population suffering from eye and ear diseases. Over the years, it expanded its services and facilities, moving to its current location on Second Avenue in the East Village. Throughout its history, NYEE has been at the forefront of medical advances in its specialties, including the development of modern cataract surgery techniques and the establishment of one of the first otolaryngology training programs in the United States.

Facilities and Services

The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary offers a wide range of services for patients with eye and ENT conditions. Its facilities include state-of-the-art surgical suites, outpatient clinics, and a research institute. The hospital is known for its comprehensive care in areas such as glaucoma, retinal diseases, corneal diseases, cataract surgery, otolaryngology, audiology, and speech pathology. NYEE also operates a 24-hour emergency department that specializes in eye and ENT emergencies, one of the few of its kind in the country.

Education and Research

As an academic affiliate of Mount Sinai Health System, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary plays a significant role in medical education and research. It offers residency programs in ophthalmology and otolaryngology, as well as fellowships in various subspecialties. The infirmary's research institute conducts cutting-edge research in vision and hearing sciences, contributing to advancements in treatment and understanding of eye and ENT disorders.

Notable Achievements

Over its 200-year history, NYEE has been recognized for numerous achievements and contributions to the fields of ophthalmology and otolaryngology. These include pioneering work in the surgical treatment of cataracts, significant advancements in the understanding and treatment of glaucoma, and innovations in hearing restoration procedures.

Community Outreach

The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary is committed to serving the community through various outreach programs. These initiatives aim to provide education on eye and ENT health, offer free or low-cost screenings, and ensure that underserved populations have access to high-quality care.

Conclusion

The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary remains a vital institution in New York City and a leader in the fields of ophthalmology and otolaryngology. Its dedication to patient care, education, and research ensures that it will continue to contribute to advancements in medicine and improve the quality of life for those with eye and ENT conditions.