Statement from Acting Health Commissioner Raynard E. Washington on Heights University Hospital Emergency Department Closure

After announcing plans to abruptly close Heights University Hospital's emergency department in Jersey City with just a couple days' notice to the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), hospital system Hudson Regional Health (HRH) has informed NJDOH of its intention to delay the closure by two weeks.

The hospital filed a Certificate of Need for Closure in the fall of 2025. The closure application is still pending review; NJDOH is currently awaiting responses to the latest set of completeness questions. HRH indicated today that it intends to provide the Department with outstanding information for the pending application. Approval of this application is required by law before closure.

Despite receiving millions in state financial assistance and other supportive interventions, HRH has failed to continue operating Heights University Hospital in compliance with state law, shuttering all but the emergency department without obtaining legally required approval.

While the anticipated closure date has been extended, this action does not change the fact that HRH remains out of compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements. The state will continue to exercise all available options to enforce regulatory authority while safeguarding public resources and trust.

The Department's Survey team has been onsite at Heights University Hospital to ensure the health and safety of patients at the facility during this tumultuous period. Additionally, a financial monitor continues to be onsite to report back any financial or operational concerns.

NJDOH is committed to safeguarding residents' access to essential health care services and that any changes affecting this access are made in accordance with the law.