For families of children living with epilepsy, every seizure matters. Each one can disrupt learning, development and quality of life. That’s why Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital’s recent Level 4 Epilepsy Center reaccreditation from the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC) is such an important milestone.
“Our program is designed to stop seizures, not just manage them—and that’s what this Level 4 reaccreditation affirms,” said Steven Wolf, MD, Section Chief of Neurology at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. “With advanced diagnostics, surgical innovations and a collaborative team, we’re helping kids take back their lives and giving families real hope.”
Understanding Pediatric Epilepsy
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in children. Seizures can look very different—ranging from brief staring spells to full-body convulsions—and accurate diagnosis is essential. At Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, families have access to:
- Comprehensive video EEG monitoring in a dedicated Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)
- Advanced imaging and genetic testing to uncover underlying causes
- Specialized neuropsychology evaluations to assess how seizures affect learning and development
What Makes a Level 4 Center Different
A Level 4 designation is the highest accreditation possible, reserved for centers with the expertise and technology to treat the most complex cases. Level 4 Epilepsy Centers provide:
- Robotic precision: Surgical stereo EEG monitoring with robotic electrode placement for faster, more accurate mapping
- State-of-the-art surgical options: Including laser ablation, neuromodulation and resection tailored to each child
- National research participation: As a member of the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium (PERC), the hospital gives families access to clinical trials and emerging therapies
- Multidisciplinary teamwork: Neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, radiologists, dietitians, nurses and social workers collaborate to design individualized treatment plans
“When a child has epilepsy, every aspect of their life is impacted,” Dr. Wolf said. “That’s why we bring together specialists across disciplines—so families receive not just medical treatment, but also the support they need to thrive.”
Comprehensive Care, Close to Home
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital is also home to the only TSC Alliance-recognized multidisciplinary clinic for tuberous sclerosis in the Hudson Valley, expanding its ability to care for children with rare and complex epilepsy syndromes.
For parents, this means they don’t have to travel to the city to find world-class care. The most advanced diagnostics, therapies and surgical innovations are available right here in Valhalla.
“Families deserve absolute confidence in their child’s care team,” says David Lubarsky, MD, MBA, President and CEO of WMCHealth. “This reaccreditation makes that confidence well earned. Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital continues to lead the region and the nation in pediatric epilepsy care.”
To schedule a consultation at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, call 914.358.0188 or learn more here.
If your child is experiencing a seizure or related emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.