Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Parking Work?
Parking is available in the ramp garage on the northeast corner of the medical center. You can enter off of the main hospital entrance (Thomas H. Jackson Drive off Elmwood Avenue) or from East Drive (off Elmwood Avenue). Valet parking is available at the main entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital and at the main entrance of Golisano Children's Hospital on 150 Crittenden Blvd. If you will be coming and going during the day, see the parking desk in the lobby for payment options. There are payment machines just inside the lobby so you can pay as you go out to your car.
Can I Sleep in my Child’s Room?
Yes. Your child will have a private room with a couch that opens into a bed for a parent or guardian. If an extra caregiver needs to sleep in the room, a window seat is available on the Park (7th) and City (8th) floors. If you need help arranging somewhere for others to stay, ask to speak to the social worker.
What About Food?
Your child will get to order from a menu to get the meals he or she prefers. If you are a nursing mother, you will get a tray. There is a family kitchen on each floor if you want to bring something to heat up. Most parents use one of the cafeterias in the building. Another option is to purchase meal vouchers and have your meal delivered along with your child’s. This provides the opportunity for you to eat together. Talk to your nurse for details. In rare situations, a social worker may be able to help you with the cost of your meals. Coffee and snacks are available courtesy of the Ronald McDonald House most mornings.
Can I Use My Cell Phone in My Child’s Room?
Usually, yes. We ask that you consider the people around you when having lengthy conversations. Some areas of the building do not have good reception so you may need to find a different place to talk. If you need to use a computer, you can visit the Mucci Family Resource Library during normal business hours.
When Can I Visit?
Parents are welcome 24 hours/day. Visiting hours for others vary a bit from unit to unit, but, for the most part, people should plan to visit between 11:00 am and 8:00 pm. If this is not convenient for you, talk with your nurse about options.
Is There a Shower Available?
Your child will have a personal restroom. On the General Pediatric Care Units, parents can use the restrooms and showers in their child's room. Some rooms in the Intensive Care Units (NICU, PICU and Pediatric Cardiac Care Center) do not have restrooms. Parents and children in these units are welcome to use restrooms and/or showers on the first floor. Please check in with the staff in the Ronald McDonald Family Room for access