Lahaina Hospital: Pros And Cons
Thirty-Six Years Of The Same
Bla-Bla-Bla

BY BUCK QUAYLE

Hospital claims and counter claims flew fast and furious over the proposed establishment of a private facility for Lahaina during a public meeting in the Kam III School cafetorium last Friday.

At the meeting, chaired by State Rep. Ronald Kondo, five representatives of the State Health Dept., headed by Dr. Walter Quisenberry, met with A.E. Brim and Fred Hilgart of Oregon, who proposed construction of an 80-bed private facility. About 35 West Maui residents attended.

In order to proceed with their plans, Brim and Hilgart must obtain a Certificate of Need from the State Health Dept. The Health Dept.,however, appears reluctant to issue the permit, for several reasons.

According to Brim's extimates, $2.4 million would be required for the purchase of land and construction. Another $500,000 would be needed for equipment and an inicial $300,000 in operating capital would be required.

However, according to cost estimates from Robert Joerger, State Health Dept. planner, the proposed 80-bed facility, without equipment, would cost $5 million to $7 million.

Area Of Maui To Be Assisted By Lahaina Hospital

According to Hilgart, Lahaina now has need for a 50-bed facility. The State representatives feel 25 beds would be adequate.

Hilgart feels that in two years time, and 80-bed facility would not be overly large. Joeger feels the need would not be that great for another 10 to 15 years.

At the present time all of Maui's needs are met by Maui Memorial near Wailuku.

Hilgart said he has a mainland investor group prepared to provide funds toward construction. The private funds probably would be supplemented with an FHA loan.

The State legislature already had appropriated $400,000 for construction of emergency medical facilities for Lahaina. Hilgart said he feels emergency care can best be provided in conjunction with a small general facility, such as he is proposing.

Hilgart's proposal would be a 40-bed facility coupled with a 40-bed nursing home and extended care. Hilgart currently is administrator of the City of Roses in Portland, Ore.

In an interview following the Friday meeting, one of the State Health Dept. officials said that the State is moving cautiously on the proposal. He said there is some fear that an overly large building will be built, and that the facility may charge high rates and specialize in medical cases which offer good profits.

He suggested the possibility that if it fails to show a profit, it will end up being turned over to the State government.

Reguardless of whether a state emergency treatment center or a privately-owned facility is built, it appears the process will involve some three years before any construction is completed. Negotiations are to continue between the Oregon group and the State Health Dept., and additional public meetings will probably follow.

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