In a significant healthcare shift in Santa Clara County, the County has entered into a tentative agreement to acquire the Regional Medical Center (RMC) from HCA Healthcare. This strategic move is set to integrate RMC into the County's healthcare system, providing continuity for critical services in East San José. According to the County of Santa Clara, earlier this month, HCA Healthcare reduced the Regional Medical Center's capability levels for trauma care, comprehensive stroke, and certain cardiac services.

In a calculated effort to better serve the community, County officials believe that the Regional Medical Center's inclusion within the Santa Clara Valley Healthcare system will be beneficial. "Making Regional Medical Center part of Santa Clara Valley Healthcare’s network of hospitals and clinics will ensure that East San José and the surrounding community continue to have access to top-notch Level II trauma, comprehensive stroke, specialized heart attack, and ultimately, labor and delivery care," County Executive James R. Williams said, as per the County of Santa Clara. The acquisition is also expected to significantly reduce the need to invest in staffing and facilities expansion at other county-operated hospitals.

RMC's reputation for providing high-quality healthcare is also a consideration. The hospital has recently been recognized as one of America's top 250 hospitals, placing it in the prestigious top 5% nationwide, according to awards for overall clinical performance received in consecutive years - 2024, 2023, and 2022. HCA Healthcare takes pride in its service to East San José. HCA Healthcare Far West Division President Jackie Van Blaricum stated, as per the County of Santa Clara, "We are proud of our more than $500 million investment in and service to the East San José community for the last 25 years.  We are pleased this move will position Regional Medical Center to continue providing access to affordable healthcare to patients in the area".