In a move poised to bolster healthcare access on the Big Island, The Queen's Health Systems and the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation (HHSC) have announced a collaborative project to develop a new outpatient care center in Kailua-Kona. This initiative follows Queen's earlier announcement of a new hospital in the region, signaling a comprehensive approach to addressing the healthcare needs of West Hawaii. The planned facility, slated to be a substantial 50,000+ square-foot medical center, is designed to be located adjacent to the new hospital, creating a healthcare hub to serve the local community.
This strategic partnership between Queen’s and HHSC represents a notable development for Hawaii's entrepreneurs and investors, particularly those in the healthcare and real estate sectors. The expansion signifies potential opportunities for local businesses providing services to the construction and healthcare industries. The project also highlights the growing demand for medical services in the Kona region, driven by population growth and an increasing number of visitors.
For investors, this project could spur interest in related ventures, such as medical office buildings, healthcare technology, and ancillary services. The development also addresses the critical need for expanded healthcare services, as highlighted in a Big Island Now report, which noted the increasing healthcare needs of the growing West Hawaii population. The creation of additional healthcare infrastructure is expected to improve access to care and reduce the need for residents to travel off-island for specialized treatments.
The commitment to develop an outpatient care center, alongside the new hospital, reveals a long-term vision for healthcare on the island as Queen’s is exploring an affordable housing program, offering employees the chance to purchase homes at below-market rates according to The Queen's Health Systems. This integrated strategy is likely to improve the overall health outcomes and foster economic growth in the community by creating jobs and attracting medical professionals. The project’s success could serve as a model for other regions in Hawaii grappling with healthcare access and infrastructure challenges.
