Following months of uncertainty and speculation about a possible shutdown, St. Rose Hospital is officially staying open under the wing of Alameda Health System (AHS). At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, new signage was unveiled at the Hayward hospital’s entrance, and AHS officials reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the hospital through their new partnership.
“We have a lot of work ahead of us, but St. Rose is now on a path to continue to serve thousands of patients in need,” said James Jackson, CEO of Alameda Health System in a press release.
As mounting political and financial pressures threaten the nation’s public health infrastructure, organizations like Alameda Health System (AHS) are becoming more vital than ever. AHS, a designated safety-net provider, delivers essential care to thousands of Alameda County residents each year—many from underserved and vulnerable populations. In November, AHS formally affiliated with St. Rose Hospital, a critical step that safeguarded the facility from closure.
Backed by a $30 million coalition effort with the City of Hayward and the Eden Health District, the deal not only ensured continued access to care but also preserved an estimated 800 jobs.
“The people of Alameda County refused to give in to the economic and political forces that are shuttering community hospitals,” said Alameda County Supervisor Elisa Márquez in the press release. “By affiliating with Alameda Health System, St. Rose Hospital joins an excellent network of care and community partnership.”
The hospital, which opened its doors on October 10, 1962, provides a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, orthopedic care, emergency services, diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation and surgery.
Hayward Mayor Mark Salinas highlighted its critical role in the community as the only hospital within Hayward city limits offering emergency services. The press release quoted him saying, “Like so many of my neighbors, I, too, have been a patient of St. Rose Hospital. This affiliation with Alameda Health System means we can rest assured that Hayward’s only emergency room will continue to serve our community.”
Although the February 18 closure of St. Rose’s Family Birthing Center is still in effect, Alameda Health System officials maintain that the shutdown is temporary and intended to allow for a comprehensive review and enhancement of maternal care services.
