South Texas Health System opens neurological ICU in McAllen after $12M renovation

South Texas Health System in McAllen opened a neurological intensive care unit in December following a $12 million hospital renovation. 

The 18-bed unit is meant for individuals recovering from brain or spinal cord injury and other neurological conditions — especially those who are admitted to its Comprehensive Stroke Center. 

Officials say they invested in the specialized 24-hour critical care unit to leverage scientific research showing it can reduce death rates and improve patient recovery. The unit has 57 registered nurses who are certified in emergency neurological life support, hospital officials said. 

“From neurologists and neurosurgeons to highly trained nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and physical, occupational, and speech therapists, the Neuro ICU team features specialists with a wide range of expertise to provide individualized care aimed at improving patient outcomes,” Dr. J. Leslie Péan, medical director of the South Texas Health System

McAllen’s Neuro ICU, said in a news release. 

The unit has already treated nearly 100 patients since it opened in late 2025. 

South Texas Health System is a Level I trauma center, which means ambulances route patients there who need the most critical care. Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg is the only other Level 1 trauma center in the Rio Grande Valley.