Kona Community Hospital executives published the findings of its Strategic Analysis and Relocation/Replacement Plan Recommendations as they make strides towards meeting the long-term healthcare needs of the West Hawaiʻi Region.

ECG Management Consultants performed the analysis to assess the healthcare needs and gaps across the region and evaluate whether and how the hospital can relocate healthcare services.

“Psychiatric, cardiology, and primary care are some of West Hawaiʻi’s greatest needs today,” said Clayton McGhan, Kona Community Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer in a press release.

The report provided recommendations for a new hospital facility closer to Kailua-Kona. It identified two feasible locations: the former Kmart location on Kamakaʻeha Avenue and an undeveloped parcel in West Hawaii Business Park. Both sites would enable the hospital to provide more acute care bedspace than its current facility, and the ability to expand its specialized services.

The analysis identified other considerations for the West Hawaiʻi area which includes communities from Kūkiʻo to Ocean View:

• 80% of patients in West Hawaiʻi seek emergency care services at Kona Community Hospital.

• West Hawaiʻi’s permanent population is expected to grow nearly 11% over the next 10 years.

• At least 25 more physicians are currently needed, including at least two physicians each to address psychiatric, cardiology, adult primary care, and pediatric specialties.

• Recruiting health care professionals remains a great challenge due to specific specialties needed, housing and living costs, and competition.

Kona Community Hospital leadership will share details about the report’s findings at two public information sessions taking place on June 24 at the West Hawaiʻi Civic Center and on June 27 at Kona Community Hospital.

The report can be found online at Kona Community Hospital’s website at kch.hhsc.org.