West Hawaii Region: Kona Community Hospital & Kohala Hospital

11/20/2025

Despite the challenges facing rural health care, the West Hawaii Region remains committed to delivering high-quality care close to home.

📽 Watch our video to learn more. Link in comments.

11/17/2025

🛑 Antibiotics aren’t always the answer.

During U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone: if you’ve got a cold or flu, those are caused by viruses. Antibiotics only fight bacteria.

Before asking for an antibiotic, ask:
➡ “Is this illness caused by a virus or a bacteria?”

Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed won’t help you feel better and it can help resistant germs get stronger.

11/14/2025

Across Hawaii, distance and geography shape how care reaches our communities. In this episode of On Call, we look at what “rural health” really means, covering the challenges in access, workforce, and specialty care, and the creative partnerships that keep our region connected. This is how we care for our island ‘ohana.

11/05/2025

Kona Community Hospital’s strength lies in its people, the medical staff whose expertise and compassion define the care we provide.

This past weekend at the Medical Staff Gala, we honored our physicians at KCH — celebrating their dedication and saying mahalo for the difference they make in our community every day.

As part of the celebration, Dr. Santad Sira was recognized for 50 years of service and Dr. Barry Blum for over 35 years of service. These are incredible milestones that reflect a lifetime of commitment to our West Hawaii community.

11/01/2025

10/31/2025

10/31/2025

Here’s the ‘Ohana Food Drop schedule for November. Visit hawaiifoodbasket.org for more information.

10/30/2025

10/22/2025

🌟 DAISY Award Spotlight: Compassionate Care in the ICU 🌟

When a loved one is in the hospital, it’s easy to feel lost in the medical jargon. But Nurse Hannah’s compassionate approach made all the difference for this family. As diagnoses were uncovered, she took the time to explain each one in clear, understandable terms. Her patience and willingness to ensure the family understood gave them the confidence they needed during a scary time.

With every update, resources on diagnoses, and a reassuring bedside manner, Nurse Hannah turned a confusing, high-stress situation into one where the family felt informed and supported. Her care went beyond the physical as she helped them navigate the unknown with empathy, patience and clarity. 💙 We are lucky to have someone like Nurse Hannah!

10/10/2025

🎗️ October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In this episode of On Call, we sit down with Dr. Brian Erickson to talk about the reality that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. He shares insights on early detection, screening, and treatment — and reminds us of our commitment to care for Every Patient, Every Day. 💕

📺 Watch the full conversation below and help us spread awareness.

10/02/2025

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A gentle reminder to the women in our lives: early detection saves lives. Talk to your provider about scheduling your mammogram. 💗