GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $1 MILLION FOR WEST MAUI HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

For Immediate Release:  February 1, 2006

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $1,000,000 to finance the planning and design of healthcare facilities in West Maui. 

The Administration recommended directing funds toward a West Maui long-term care and medical clinic facility after a West Maui task force formed in 2005 determined a need for expanded urgent care, especially after-hours urgent care, and elder care services as soon as possible.  It is expected that the facility will be designed and built for future expansion to accommodate the growing community. 

“The entire community will benefit from this project.  The healthcare facilities will provide much needed services and support for residents and visitors, while also addressing the demand for long-term care beds,” said Governor Lingle.  “It is part of our ongoing commitment to promote a healthier Hawai`i.”

“We are deeply grateful for the Governor’s commitment to healthcare on Maui.  These funds will provide base support for the planning of a West Maui facility, which is integral to our overall master planning efforts for all of Maui,” said Wesley Lo, Maui region chief executive officer, Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation (HHSC). 

####

For more information, contact:
Tom Driskill          
President          
Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation         
Phone: (808) 733-4151

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043