Special Services
Blood Bank
Albany Medical Center Hospital relies on the New York-Penn Region of the American Red Cross for the collection, processing, and distribution of blood for all our patients. Volunteer donors supply blood throughout the year to help make sure that every person who needs a transfusion can receive one.
To maintain its supply of blood, the Red Cross needs donations. People like you, your family, and your friends can help meet this very important need.
Surgical Waiting Area
If you are having surgery, we encourage your family and friends to use the Surgical Waiting Area. Located off the lobby of the M-Building, the Surgical Waiting Area is in close proximity to telephones, restrooms, and vending machines, and offers a comfortable place for your family and friends to stay informed of your progress during your procedure. The Surgical Waiting Area Coordinator serves as an informative link between your surgeon and your visitors with periodic updates from the operating room during your surgery.
If your family and friends choose to wait in the Surgical Waiting Area, they should check in with the Coordinator at the Information Desk located in the Surgical Waiting Area. The Coordinator will give them information about beepers, lockers, the amenities station and other services.
For People With Special Needs:
Amplified Telephones
You can request an amplified telephone from our Telecommunications Department by calling (518) 262-3759.
Closed Caption Television Programming
Closed-captioned programming is available on all televisions rented from the hospital. Call (518) 262-3168 to arrange for a television representative who will visit your room to answer any questions you might have about using this service.
Hearing Assistance Devices
The Hearing Center at Albany Medical Center has a limited number of hearing assistance devices for loan to Hospital inpatients during their stay.
For more information, call (518) 262-4535.
TTY Machines
The hospital has three TTY machines for individuals with speaking or hearing difficulties. They are located in:
| Building-M Lobby Available 24 hours a day for outgoing calls. Look for the clearly marked pay phone. | |
| The Emergency Department Available for emergency use 24 hours a day for incoming and outgoing calls. | |
| The Telecommunications Department Available upon request during regular business hours. Call (518) 262-3756. |
