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Uniting independent physicians to overcome burnout and shortages in Hawaii’s healthcare system

By Craig Hamasaki, MD As a dedicated physician practicing in Hawaii, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that our healthcare system faces. Among the most pressing issues are physician burnout and the growing shortage of healthcare professionals. These challenges are not unique to Hawaii, but their impact is profoundly felt in our island communities. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for independent physicians to come together and drive the change we wish to see in healthcare. My journey into medicine was inspired by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. ...

Healthwise Maui

Q: I have a family history of breast cancer. Do general mammogram recommendations apply to me? Rachel Thelen, Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic: Mammograms are an important screening tool for breast cancer because they are able to ...

No Ka ‘Oi Health: September is Healthy Aging Month

In September, we get to honor our kupuna during Healthy Aging Month. While older adults are at increased risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and dementia, there are many healthy choices seniors can make to help prevent illness and live longer, more independently, and with higher quality of life. Stay active—Exercise helps improve how long we live and our quality of life. More specifically, exercise helps reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of depression, reduces risk for certain diseases, improves balance, lowers risk of falls, and improves ...

Paniolo’s Corner

Seeing some of the images from the nurse’s strike on O‘ahu has been distressing, to say the least. Images of kupuna being hauled away in handcuffs, fighting for what they believe in have made their way across the nation and world. And if it has gone this far, it’s clear these ...

Ka‘ana Mana‘o By Lui Hokoana: Looking Forward

The start of a new school year is always exciting for our students—especially our new students—and for our administration, faculty, and staff, as well. Our Fall 2024 classes started exactly one month ago and we’re happy to report that the semester has gotten off to a great start. One extremely encouraging sign is that enrollment is up more than 25% from Fall 2023. As you may recall, the University of Hawai‘i was able to offer full scholarships to all 2024 Lāhainaluna High School graduates. Students could choose to attend any of the system’s ten campuses. We’re pleased to ...

Healthwise Maui

EDITOR’S NOTE: Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in HEALTHWISE MAUI, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana‘i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise. Q: What is the difference between a medical grade hyperbaric oxygen chamber and a non-medical grade one? Jessica Acop, RN, Program Director: Maui ...