Regional Medical Center Reopens Labor and Delivery Ward in San Jose

The Regional Medical Center in East San Jose will reopen its labor and delivery ward on October 16, 2025, after a lengthy closure that began in 2020. This reopening marks a significant milestone for the hospital, which has been under new management by Santa Clara County since its acquisition from HCA Healthcare six months ago. The labor and delivery services are expected to support over 1,000 births annually, significantly enhancing maternal healthcare in the region.

Community Impact and Services Restored

The decision to revive the labor and delivery ward comes as part of a broader initiative to restore critical healthcare services to the community. Paul Lorenz, CEO of the county-operated Santa Clara Valley Healthcare system, emphasized the commitment to enhance local healthcare at a press conference. “From day one, our goal has been very simple: restore vital services for this community and strengthen the hospital’s foundation for the future,” Lorenz stated.

Since the county assumed control, the hospital has already reopened its Level II trauma center, as well as stroke and heart attack services. Lorenz noted that the hospital’s patient volume has doubled, indicating a strong demand for these essential services.

The labor and delivery ward will feature six delivery rooms, 13 post-delivery rooms, four triage rooms, and a six-bed neonatal intensive care unit, all designed to provide comprehensive support for families. The birthing rooms will be single-family, ensuring privacy and comfort for new mothers.

Addressing Local Healthcare Needs

Many expectant mothers in East San Jose previously faced challenges in accessing local maternity care, often traveling long distances to reach hospitals. Betty Duong, a county supervisor, highlighted the importance of local access to maternal healthcare. “When a mother is in labor, they have enough to worry about and should not be concerned if they will make it to the hospital on time due to traffic,” she said. “It’s now time for babies from the East Side to be born in the East Side again.”

The reopening also coincides with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city and county officials, celebrating the return of these critical services to the community. Greta Hansen, the chief operating officer of the county, reiterated the commitment to offering “comprehensive support and care” for families before and after childbirth, including resources for breastfeeding and baby bonding.

Despite the positive developments, the county faces significant financial challenges ahead. Board of Supervisor President Otto Lee warned of a looming budget shortfall of approximately $1 billion annually due to recent federal cuts to Medicaid. These budget cuts could jeopardize vital services that rely on this funding.

To address these challenges, voters in Santa Clara County will decide in November whether to approve Measure A, which proposes a 0.625% sales tax increase. This measure is expected to generate around $330 million each year to help offset the impact of federal cuts.

James Williams, the county executive, expressed confidence in the community’s resilience. “We’re committed to ensuring that this resource is here for generation after generation to come,” he affirmed, highlighting the importance of local healthcare access for future leaders born in the area.

The reopening of the labor and delivery ward at Regional Medical Center is a crucial step towards restoring healthcare services in East San Jose. As the hospital prepares to welcome new lives, community leaders remain focused on ensuring that these essential services are sustainable for the long term.