The Queen’s Health Systems, corporate parent of The Queen’s Medical Center, and Wahiawa General Hospital (WGH) provided an update today as both parties continue to explore the possibility of a formal affiliation.
In November, QHS and WGH officially entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement. This agreement will allow Queen’s to formalize the purchase of WGH scheduled for April 2, 2024.
Since November, QHS and WGH have been working together to determine how to best serve the needs of the Central O‘ahu and the North Shore community well into the future. Because QHS’ goal is to increase access to the highest quality patient care, it has spent considerable time evaluating the facility and services at WGH. After careful deliberation, QHS has determined its initial focus will be to strengthen WGH’s Emergency Department and diagnostic services, ensuring its ability to meet the increasing needs of Wahiawa, Central O‘ahu and the North Shore.
“Our goal always is to provide high quality, safe, compassionate care that is delivered close to home for everyone,” said Robin Kalohelani RN, MSN/Ed, CCM, FACHE, Vice President of Operations and Associate Chief Nursing Officer at The Queen’s Medical Center – West Oʻahu. “Extending our legacy of excellence into Central O‘ahu not only preserves critical access to emergency services for those who live and work in Central O‘ahu, it also provides these residents with increased access to an array of specialty services available throughout the Queen’s network.”
The specific nature of the affiliation between Queen’s and WGH will be determined and announced after the due diligence period, a process that typically takes between 90 to 120 days to complete. Importantly, both Queen’s and Wahiawa General Hospital are committed to a seamless transition for all team members involved. And as construction begins and services are evaluated, both will make every effort to ensure the least amount of disruption.
“We remain encouraged about a formal affiliation with The Queen’s Health Systems,” said Brian Cunningham, CEO of Wahiawa General Hospital. “The mission of Queen’s aligns well ours, and they have been supportive of WGH and our community. This affiliation will further improve our ability to fulfill our mission: Improving the health status of the people of Central Oahu and the North Shore.”
Wahiawa General Hospital, a nonprofit hospital that serves Central O‘ahu and the North Shore, opened in 1957. Its current services include acute care, emergency and outpatient services. More information will be shared with employees as it becomes available.