
Wondering what sort of medical services are available on the Big Island? We’ve put together a list to help you decide when to make the big move.
When choosing the perfect destination for your dream home, you have to factor in everything that’s truly important to you. If you’re someone with a greater need for medical attention or simply getting up there in years, then the availability of medical services might be pretty high on your list. While this may have excluded Hawai’i Island in years past, you may want to take another look. In recent years, the recourses available to residents of the Big Island have increased immensely. From emergency air services to brand-new hospitals, here’s an updated look at the healthcare landscape shaping our vibrant communities.
1. Life Flight & Air Ambulance Coverage
These layered services guarantee rapid response times, helping residents and visitors access critical care swiftly – often making the difference in emergencies.
- Hawaiʻi Life Flight maintains a 24/7 base in Kona near the community hospital, equipped with an EC135 helicopter and critical-care crew ready to transfer patients across the island and to Oʻahu.
- Kona Community Hospital’s Rotor Copter Program also operates an AS350B rotor-transport dedicated to emergent transfers -especially important for trauma and heart attack response.
- Life Flight Network, in partnership with Daniel R. Sayre Foundation, is installing Airbus EC135 helicopters at Kona, Hilo, and Waimea, upgrading to H145s by 2026, boosting capacity even further.
2. Upcoming Hospitals & Expansions
Here are some of the known upcoming advancements in our local medical infrastructure.
- Hilo Benioff Medical Center -This powerhouse is currently undergoing a major expansion: an $80 million, 66,000 sq ft project adding 36 beds and a 19‑bed ICU, plus a new Family Birthing Center. Completion is expected by winter 2026.
Here’s what Governor Josh Green had to say on the matter - Queen’s Health Systems in Kailua‑Kona – A transformative development is on the horizon: a new 80‑bed hospital next to Costco, slated to open in 5 years. With a helipad and ambulatory care facilities, the $400-500 million campus will also include 150 workforce housing units, easing housing pressure for healthcare staff. This facility promises to offer “comprehensive inpatient and emergency care” plus advanced specialty services for North and West Hawaiʻi.
Check out this article put out by Hawaii News Now - Renovation of Kona Community Hospital – The state-funded Kona Community Hospital (currently 94 beds) is in the process of renovating many systems including the HVAC, roof and sewer. On top of this they have just finished expanding the pharmacy. Read the Hawaii Tribune Herald’s report on the new expanded pharmacy
Together these groups are calling for an increase to healthcare workers on the island which can be viewed in this press release on Kona Community Hospital’s website.
3. Primary, Telehealth & Urgent Care Services
Beyond these flagship institutions we have the support of other smaller medical facilities.
- Community Clinics – The island boasts multiple community clinics and urgent care centers in Hilo, Kona, Waimea, Keaʻau, and beyond.
- Advancements in Telemedicine – Telemedicine bridges geographical gaps, offering remote consultations – a game changer for residents in isolated areas.
4. Why This Matters for Home Buyers
- Peace of Mind – Proximity to top-tier emergency care is a top priority for families, retirees, and active residents.
- Growth Potential – New hospitals bring jobs, boosting local economic vitality and property values.
- Community Benefits – Workforce housing promotes stability in healthcare staffing, meaning reliable, quality care for residents.
The Big Island’s healthcare ecosystem is undergoing dynamic improvements – from expanded ICUs in Hilo, enhanced lifesaving air transports, to a brand-new hospital bolstered with staff housing. Whether you’re drawn to a laid-back Kona home or a growing Hilo neighborhood, robust medical infrastructure makes this paradise even more appealing.
If you’d like insight on neighborhoods aligned with these developments, or anything else about making the Big Island your home, don’t hesitate. Reach out today. We’d love the opportunity to connect you with the perfect home.
Considering a Move?
Here are some tips to align your home-buying journey with medical needs:
Factor | What to Look For |
---|---|
Proximity | Nearer to regional hospitals means faster access and greater peace of mind |
Growth areas | Neighborhoods near the new Queen’s campus are poised for future value appreciation |
Accessibility | Easy inter-island transport (helipad, airport) matters for specialized care |
See our real estate listings here.
