JERSEY CITY, NJ —
June 18, 2026 |
By DailyHudson Staff
Hospital officials confirm increased volume and are exploring expansion options.
Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC) has reported an increase in patient volume following the closure of Hudson Regional Health’s Heights University Hospital (HUH) in March, according to a statement from RWJBarnabas Health officials.
With HUH now closed, JCMC stands as the only hospital serving Jersey City’s roughly 300,000 residents, prompting concerns about capacity and wait times in the emergency department.
RWJBarnabas Health Assistant Vice President Stacie Newton Hunt said the network is in constant dialogue with elected officials and is investing in services and infrastructure at JCMC.
The closure of HUH, described by officials as “improper and illegal,” has led to hours-long wait times at JCMC’s emergency department, residents and officials report.
“We are looking at ways to increase capacity at JCMC and stand ready to work with the NJDOH to address the changing healthcare landscape,” said Hunt.
Impact: The increased demand has also raised costs for the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, which must pay officers to monitor inmates during extended treatment at JCMC.
What Happens Next: JCMC is analyzing expansion options, while the Jersey City Planning Board considers using eminent domain on HUH to bring healthcare back to the Heights.
The community continues to push for additional healthcare capacity as JCMC works with officials to meet demand.
Source: Hudson County View
