GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $1,920,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO MOLOKA`I GENERAL HOSPITAL

For Immediate Release:  March 6, 2006

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $1,920,000 for improvements to Moloka`i General Hospital.

In July 2005, Moloka`i General Hospital finished a major expansion project that added a new 11,500-square-foot wing for patient services, including space for emergency, urgent care and acute services.  The $7.5 million project was partially supported with a $1 million state grant, which Governor Lingle released in March 2003.

This project will encompass a major overhaul of the original 22,000-square-foot hospital structure, which was built in 1962.  With all of the critical hospital services having moved to the newly constructed wing, the original structure will now be renovated to house a women’s health center, physical therapy activities, food service, and administration support services.  The renovation will also bring the older structure up to code.

“Renovating the original Moloka`i General Hospital structure to plan for a women’s health center and physical therapy unit will ensure the proper care for our residents on Moloka`i,” said Governor Lingle.  “This is part of our ongoing commitment to promote a healthier Hawai`i.”

Construction is expected to be completed by December 2006.

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For more information, contact:
Dr. Chiyome Fukino          
Director – Department of Health         
Phone: (808) 586-4410

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

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