Historic $2.6 Billion Investment Fortifies Regional Health Care, Bolstering BCW Healthcare Members

New York Governor Kathy Hochul was at Westchester Medical Center on Thursday to announce a transformative investment of over $2.6 billion in capital and operating funds through the Health Care Safety Net Transformation Program.

She was joined by Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, NYS Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and David Lubarsky, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer of WMCHealth, hospital officials and healthcare providers to announce $100 million that will go to WMCHealth.

“So, I’m proud to say that I want to be part of the solution,’’ said Governor Hochul. “Leaders want to be part of the solution and that’s why we’re here today to announce $100 million toward that effort to help you…And we’re going to be able to expand services for high-risk pregnancy patients and modernized mental health units, connect 930 primary care providers with 60 locations across the Hudson Valley.”

This historic $2.6 billion in funding is designed to strengthen and stabilize six safety net hospitals statewide through new strategic partnerships, ensuring all New Yorkers have access to high-quality care. This initiative is particularly significant for the Westchester business community, as two prominent BCW members, Montefiore Health System and Westchester Medical Center (WMC), are major recipients of this critical state support.

The funding incentivizes large health systems to partner with financially distressed safety net institutions, providing the necessary strategic capital and operational support to foster long-term sustainability and expand essential services.

Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) Integration

Westchester Medical Center (WMC) will fully integrate Bon Secours Charity Health System and Health Alliance of the Hudson Valley into its broader WMCHealth network. This move aims to seamlessly streamline operations across the system, improving efficiency and access to advanced care.

The comprehensive integration plan includes unifying the system’s electronic medical record system, expanding WMC’s residency program, and improving access to key services such as behavioral health, maternal, pediatric, and ambulatory care.

“The strength of our hospitals is a reflection of the strength of our communities, and safety net hospitals play a critical role in providing quality health care to vulnerable populations,” said Governor Hochul. “Every person should have access to affordable, reliable health care regardless of the zip code they live in, and these investments will bring vital resources to underserved New Yorkers.”

This massive investment builds upon the Governor’s commitment to New York’s health care infrastructure, which includes previous, significant Medicaid rate increases.

Montefiore Health System & St. John’s Riverside Hospital

St. John’s Riverside Hospital will become fully integrated into the Montefiore Health System. This partnership is crucial for protecting and expanding access to high-quality care for Yonkers, Dobbs Ferry, and the nearby River Towns.

Montefiore will focus on expanding vital community services at St. John’s, specifically enhancing cardiac and cancer care in both inpatient and ambulatory settings. This service expansion will ensure that more area residents can receive essential, high-quality care close to home.

For the Business Council of Westchester, the stabilization and enhancement of these essential regional health institutions represent a major step forward in strengthening the overall health and economic vitality of the region. A robust health care infrastructure is a cornerstone of a thriving business environment, supporting the workforce and attracting new talent to the area.

Read the governor’s full press release here.

To hear more about the future of health care in Hudson Valley, be sure to attend our Annual Dinner on Monday, October 27 at the VIP County Club in New Rochelle.  To purchase tickets, click HERE