BREAKING: Heights University Hospital in Jersey City is set to close its doors permanently on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. unless state intervention occurs. Local officials, including Mayor James Solomon, are demanding immediate action to prevent the shutdown of this historic institution, which has served the community since 1872.
The closure comes amid alarming reports of ongoing financial struggles, with the hospital’s owners citing annual losses exceeding $60 million. Key factors contributing to this crisis include severe cuts to Medicaid and reduced funding for Charity Care. As a result, Hudson County may soon be left with only five hospitals, intensifying concerns about healthcare access for local residents.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Heights University Hospital’s emergency department remains operational, but only temporarily. The majority of the hospital has been closed since November 2023, and the impending closure threatens vital medical services in the region.
Mayor Solomon expressed his outrage over the impending closure, highlighting a stark contrast to previous promises made by the hospital’s leadership.
“This is unacceptable, especially since just a year ago, their CEO said that the future is bright for patients in the Heights. I will use all my power to reverse this decision,”
Solomon stated. He is currently in discussions with Gov. Mikie Sherrill and the state Health Department to explore every possible option, including seeking an emergency injunction against the shutdown.
The hospital’s current operator, Hudson Regional Health, claimed it has invested over $100 million to maintain operations. However, spokesperson Vijay Chaudhuri pointed to drastic funding cuts as a primary reason for the financial crisis. “These losses were due largely to drastic cuts to Medicaid and other critical funding,” Chaudhuri said, underscoring the financial impact of state-level decisions.
Local lawmakers, including State Sen. Raj Mukherji and Assemblywoman Katie Brennan, have also voiced their concerns. They argue that financial difficulties do not justify the abrupt closure without following the mandated state closure process. In a joint statement, they called on the state Health Commissioner to intervene and ensure that the hospital’s emergency department remains operational.
With the clock ticking down to the shutdown, the community is left grappling with the potential loss of vital healthcare services. The closure threatens not only immediate access to emergency care but also raises significant questions about the future of healthcare in Hudson County.
Residents are urged to stay informed on this developing situation as officials continue to push for solutions to keep Heights University Hospital open. The community’s health and safety hang in the balance as the deadline approaches.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent matter.
