JERSEY CITY, NJ —
June 18, 2026 |
By DailyHudson Staff
Hospital looks to expand capacity as city’s only acute care facility faces increased demand.
Jersey City Medical Center has confirmed an increase in patient volume following the March closure of Hudson Regional Health’s Heights University Hospital, according to a statement from RWJBarnabas Health.
With the closure of HUH, JCMC is now the sole hospital serving Jersey City’s population of roughly 300,000, straining emergency services and leading to reported hours-long wait times.
RWJBarnabas Health Assistant Vice President Stacie Newton Hunt said the healthcare network is in constant dialogue with Mayor James Solomon and other officials as they respond to the increased demand.
Hunt stated that JCMC is looking at ways to increase patient capacity to address the changing healthcare landscape following the ‘improper and illegal closure’ of HUH.
‘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,’ Hunt said in a statement.
Impact: Residents have reported hours-long waits in the emergency department, and the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office faces added costs for officers monitoring inmates during extended treatments at JCMC.
What Happens Next: The Jersey City Planning Board is considering using eminent domain on HUH to bring healthcare back to the Heights, while JCMC continues to explore expansion options.
Hunt emphasized that RWJBarnabas Health remains committed to supporting the healthcare needs of all Hudson County residents as the largest provider of charity care in the state.
Source: Hudson County View
