HUDSON COUNTY — A recent report written for the state’s Health Care Facilities Financing Authority said that the three Hudson County hospitals that receive millions in state aid should consolidate services – however, two of those facilities will probably be sold to for-profit companies in the near future, changing their status.
Jersey City Medical Center, Christ Hospital, and Hoboken University Medical Center were part of the study commissioned by the state agency. HUMC and Christ Hospital are in the process of being sold.
The 135-page report, released on July 27, was prepared by Navigant Consulting, Inc.
Navigant was asked by the state HCFFA to “inventory the health care services available in the primary service areas of Christ Hospital, Hoboken University Medical Center, and Jersey City Medical Center to determine whether duplication of services or unused capacity exists” in Hudson County.
The report concluded that “there is significant excess inpatient capacity in virtually every service offered…and unnecessary duplication of services.”
The report also states the three hospitals have “not succeeded in turning the corner in terms of financial performance.”
Navigant advocates for a consolidation of under-utilized services, and the exploration of facility consolidation options for the future.
The potential new owners of Hoboken University Medical Center, HUMC Holdco, LLC, issued a statement on Wednesday after the report was released.
“Our only comment to the Navigant report’s findings is to reaffirm our commitment to operating Hoboken University Medical Center (HUMC) as a full service acute care community hospital,” according to the statement from Holdco. “The hospital provides a critical lifeline to the Hoboken community and we will never underestimate this important role. If our purchase of the hospital is completed, HUMC Holdco will make investments in HUMC to ensure it provides the best quality patient care and serves the Hoboken community for years to come.”
They also said in the statement that HUMC, along with Bayonne Medical Center, which they also own and operate, is committed to working with the Department of Health and Senior Services to improve patient care in Hudson County.
The full report is available on the HCFFA website HERE. — Ray Smith
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