The Hilo Medical Center, formerly known as the Hilo Hospital, is a 275-bed hospital located in Hilo, Hawaii. Established in 1897, the hospital has a long history of providing quality healthcare services to the residents of the Big Island. As a Level III Trauma Center, the Hilo Medical Center offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialty clinics. The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission and is committed to providing patient-centered care that meets the unique needs of the community.
History and Development
The Hilo Medical Center has undergone significant transformations over the years, with a focus on expanding its services and improving patient care. In 2012, the hospital completed a major renovation project, which included the construction of a new emergency department and the expansion of its surgical services. The hospital has also invested in advanced technology, including a state-of-the-art electronic health record system, to enhance patient care and streamline clinical operations. With a strong commitment to quality and patient safety, the Hilo Medical Center has received numerous awards and recognition, including the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines award for stroke care.
Services and Specialties
The Hilo Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. The hospital’s emergency department is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians and is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. The hospital also has a telemedicine program, which allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Some of the key services and specialties offered by the Hilo Medical Center include:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Emergency Department | 24/7 emergency care for adults and children |
| Surgical Services | General surgery, orthopedic surgery, and specialty surgical services |
| Cardiology | Diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease and heart failure |
| Oncology | Comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services |
| Neurology | Diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis |
Key Points
- The Hilo Medical Center is a 275-bed hospital located in Hilo, Hawaii, and is accredited by the Joint Commission.
- The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialty clinics.
- The hospital has a strong commitment to quality and patient safety, and has received numerous awards and recognition for its care.
- The hospital's emergency department is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians and is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies.
- The hospital has a telemedicine program, which allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.
Community Involvement and Outreach
The Hilo Medical Center is committed to giving back to the community and has established several outreach programs to promote health and wellness. The hospital offers free health screenings, educational workshops, and support groups to help patients manage chronic conditions and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The hospital also partners with local organizations to provide health services to underserved populations and to address health disparities in the community. Some of the key community involvement and outreach initiatives include:
The hospital's Community Health Needs Assessment program, which identifies the health needs of the community and develops strategies to address them. The hospital's health education program, which provides patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their health and prevent illness. The hospital's volunteer program, which provides opportunities for community members to get involved and make a difference in the lives of patients and families.
Quality and Patient Safety
The Hilo Medical Center is committed to providing high-quality care that is safe, effective, and patient-centered. The hospital has implemented several quality improvement initiatives, including a patient safety program that focuses on reducing medical errors and improving patient outcomes. The hospital also has a quality dashboard that tracks key performance indicators, such as patient satisfaction, readmission rates, and infection rates. Some of the key quality and patient safety initiatives include:
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Patient Safety Program | Reduces medical errors and improves patient outcomes through evidence-based practices and staff education |
| Quality Dashboard | Tracks key performance indicators, such as patient satisfaction, readmission rates, and infection rates |
| Medication Safety Program | Improves medication safety through barcoding, electronic prescribing, and staff education |
| Infection Prevention Program | Reduces hospital-acquired infections through evidence-based practices and staff education |
| Patient Engagement Program | Encourages patients to take an active role in their care through education, support, and empowerment |
What services does the Hilo Medical Center offer?
+The Hilo Medical Center offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialty clinics.
Is the Hilo Medical Center accredited?
+Yes, the Hilo Medical Center is accredited by the Joint Commission.
What is the hospital's commitment to patient safety?
+The Hilo Medical Center is committed to providing high-quality care that is safe, effective, and patient-centered. The hospital has implemented several quality improvement initiatives, including a patient safety program and a quality dashboard.
How can I get involved in the hospital's community outreach programs?
+The hospital offers several community outreach programs, including free health screenings, educational workshops, and support groups. You can contact the hospital's community outreach department to learn more about these programs and how to get involved.
What is the hospital's vision for the future?
+The Hilo Medical Center's vision for the future is to continue providing high-quality, patient-centered care that meets the unique needs of the community. The hospital is committed to staying at the forefront of medical innovation and technology, while also addressing the social determinants of health and promoting health equity.
The Hilo Medical Center is a vital part of the healthcare system in Hawaii, providing essential medical services to the residents of the Big Island. With its strong commitment to quality, patient safety, and community outreach, the hospital is well-positioned to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. As a healthcare professional, it’s essential to recognize the importance of collaboration and partnership in enhancing patient care and outcomes. The Hilo Medical Center’s commitment to working with patients, families, and community partners is a key factor in its success and a model for other healthcare organizations to follow.
