West Hawai‘i hospitals awarded $2.5M to enhance medical records system

Hawai‘i Health Systems Corp.’s West Hawai‘i Region, which includes Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital, was awarded $2.5 million in federal funding to bolster its electronic medical records system, also known as EPIC.

The funding enables the hospitals to continue enhancements of their technological infrastructure, ensuring improved patient care and streamlined access to medical records.

“By investing in our [electronic medical records] platform, we are equipping our community with a revolutionary tool to quickly share a person’s medical history with health care providers using the same platform,” said West Hawai‘i Region CEO Clayton McGhan. “The time saved with EPIC can be the difference in improved patient outcomes.”

The funds also allow Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital to seamlessly communication among the network of health care providers who rely on EPIC for medical records statewide.

This investment will enhance the hospitals’ ability to deliver personalized care, improve patient safety and streamline administrative processes.

“Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital provide critical care to the West Hawai’i community every day,” said U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, a Hawai‘i Democrat. “This new funding will help improve these hospitals by making necessary upgrades to ensure safe, easy access to medical records for patients and staff alike.”

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, also a Hawai‘i Democrat, said in many areas on the Big Island and throughout the state, geographic barriers to health care mean every second counts in a medical emergency.

The efficient maintenance of medical records plays a crucial role in ensuring patients can receive the care they need.

“I am glad that [Hawai‘i Health Systems Corp.]’s West Hawai‘i Region will be receiving this federal support to help strengthen their medical records system,” said Hirono.