We're celebrating 40 Years of #TheBestIdeasInMedicine! In 1980, Stony Brook University Hospital first opened its doors and became the region’s first academic medical center. Throughout its 40 years, Stony Brook Medicine has grown to become Long Island’s premier academic medical center. Today, the 818-bed healthcare system provides advanced and compassionate care to Long Islanders, with more than one million patient encounters each year. As an academic medical center, Stony Brook continues to play a major role in leading research and pioneering techniques.