Hāmākua-Kohala Health (HKH) is excited to announce that they are in the process of planning a new community health center situated on the old infirmary land.
HKH has raised over $800,000 to remove the old infirmary building and develop plans for a new multi-million dollar medical facility. Removal of old infirmary will begin in 2021. HKH is responding to the community’s desperate need for additional health care services and staff. The demand for health care has increased due to the ongoing economic situation, where people have lost their jobs and their health insurance. HKH provides comprehensive range of healthcare services, from primary and preventative care to behavioral health, and even keiki dental.
“I am very excited to be starting to develop a new health facility that will provide access to more medical, dental and behavioral health services,” said Irene Carpenter, CEO, Hāmākua-Kohala Health Center. “This is a multi-year project that will require support from the community and the services will be developed in response to the needs of the community.”
Most importantly, HKH provides quality health care services to persons of all ages, regardless of their ability to pay or health insurance status. Hāmākua-Kohala Health is the safety net medical provider people regardless of their insurance status, accepting both patients with and without insurance. HKH exists to ensure access to health care for everyone.
“Hamakua Kohala Health Center is expanding all of our services to meet a huge increase in demand from people who are newly uninsured because of job loss. I am urging anyone who needs health care to call and pick a medical provider.” encourages Carpenter.
HKH is projected to double the number of patients served by January 2021. To meet this growing need, HKH has hired several highly qualified medical and behavioral healthcare providers. After the completion of the new facility, the current Hale Ho Ola facility will remain open. The new facility will increase the number of primary care providers available.
While HKH has raised significant funds for this project and are committed to its success, the HKH Board of Directors is asking for financial and community support as the new facility is developed. Any questions about the future development of this facility, or if you would like to donate and get involved, direct your inquiries to Carpenter at Hamakua Kohala Health (808) 930-2745.
For more information, or to schedule a wellness visit, call Hāmākua-Kohala Health at (808) 775-7204.