New York State has opened The Center for Discovery's Children's Specialty Hospital in Rock Hill, a new facility aimed at providing specialised short-term inpatient care for children and adolescents with complex disabilities, including autism.

The hospital introduces a treatment model designed to reduce the need for long-term residential placements.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said: “By bolstering this continuum of care through The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital, families will spend less time apart and remain connected to their communities following treatment.”

The Children's Specialty Hospital, developed by The Center for Discovery (TCFD) in partnership with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), was funded through a $48m low-interest loan from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Rural Development's Community Facilities Program.

Additional financial support included a $4m investment from New York State's Empire State Development, with further backing from the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and the New York State Department of Health (DOH).

The hospital caters to children aged five to 21 who meet the eligibility criteria of OPWDD and need medical care alongside support for their developmental disabilities.

The programme offers inpatient treatment and medical, behavioural, and clinical assessments for up to six months.

Designed to address both medical and therapeutic needs, the facility includes a health clinic, classrooms, sensory rooms, and a therapeutic gym.

The campus also features outdoor walking trails, healing gardens, and a greenhouse.

Upon completing their short-term treatment, patients will return home with a specialised care plan, including training for caregivers, families and school districts.

The Center for Discovery president and CEO Dr Terry Hamlin said: “With the launch of our new Children’s Specialty Hospital, we are thrilled to extend our reach and impact, providing a lifeline to families in search of answers.”