JERSEY CITY, NJ —
June 18, 2026 |
By DailyHudson Staff
Officials are considering expansion as the only hospital in a city of 300,000 struggles with demand.
Jersey City Medical Center has confirmed an increase in patient volume following the closure of Hudson Regional Health’s Heights University Hospital in March, according to a hospital spokeswoman.
The closure leaves Jersey City, home to roughly 300,000 residents, with a single hospital. Community members and officials have reported hours-long wait times in the emergency department and other strains on the healthcare system.
RWJBarnabas Health Assistant Vice President Stacie Newton Hunt stated that the healthcare network is in constant dialogue with Mayor James Solomon and other officials.
The hospital is analyzing ways to increase patient capacity to meet the growing demand, though specific details have not yet been released.
“We have seen growth and increased patient volume,” said Stacie Newton Hunt, RWJBarnabas Health Assistant Vice President of Strategic Marketing Communications. “We are also looking at ways to increase capacity at JCMC and stand ready to work with the NJDOH to address the changing healthcare landscape.”
Impact: The increased demand has led to longer waits in the emergency department and added costs for the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, which must monitor inmates receiving treatment for extended periods.
What Happens Next: The Jersey City Planning Board is considering using eminent domain to bring healthcare back to the Heights, while JCMC explores expansion options. The City Council also approved a resolution seeking a fair contract for JCMC resident physicians.
DailyHudson will monitor for updates from the New Jersey Department of Health and city officials on the hospital’s expansion plans.
Source: Hudson County View
