New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a preliminary approval of significant investments in seven hospital projects and partnerships across New York State as part of the state's Healthcare Safety Net Transformation Program.

The initiatives include up to $188 million for Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to establish a Comprehensive Cancer Care Center of Queens. This new facility will provide radiation and infusion therapy locally, reducing the need for residents to travel outside the borough for advanced cancer treatments.

“These investments will bring vital resources to underserved New Yorkers,” Hochul said. “Every person should have access to affordable, reliable health care regardless of the zip code they live in.”

The program, established in the FY25 state budget, aims to strengthen safety net hospitals and foster partnerships with healthcare organizations through capital and operating support. It also provides regulatory flexibility to address the specific needs of hospitals that serve vulnerable communities.

Other approved projects include:

St. Barnabas Hospital (Bronx): Partnering with Cityblock Health and Union Community Health Center to improve outcomes for 35,000 Healthfirst members, many with behavioral health needs.

Glens Falls Hospital (Glens Falls): Modernizing its emergency department and integrating with Albany Med Health System for expanded stroke care and improved discharge resources.

Kaleida Health (Western NY): Partnering with rural hospitals, including building a new facility in Chautauqua County and upgrading electronic medical records for systemwide efficiency.

Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital (Westchester): Upgrading maternity and neonatal care facilities to address outdated infrastructure.

University of Vermont Health Network (North Country): Improving behavioral health services and financial stability at UVM Alice Hyde Medical Center.

Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital (Central NY): Partnering with Otsego County Ambulance Services and Noble Health Services to improve emergency response and pharmacy operations.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting the critical role safety net hospitals play in promoting health equity and addressing the needs of underserved communities.

Local leaders and officials applauded the initiatives. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards highlighted the cancer center’s impact on the nearly 11,500 annual cancer diagnoses in Queens, calling it a "lifesaving investment."

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