The Queen's Health System has officially concluded the acquisition of Wahiawa General Hospital (WGH), now rebranded as The Queen's Medical Center—Wahiawa.

In November last year, The Queen’s Health System, corporate parent of The Queen’s Medical Center, and Wahiawa General Hospital signed an asset purchase agreement.

This strategic move aims to enhance healthcare services for more than 150,000 residents across Wahiawa, Central O‘ahu, and the North Shore.

WGH has been a cornerstone in providing healthcare since 1957. Throughout the acquisition process, the hospital's board, physicians, administration and staff were actively involved, ensuring a seamless transition into the Queen's family.

The Queen’s Medical Center – West Oʻahu regional vice-president for Operations, Central and West Oahu, associate chief nursing officer Robin Kalohelani said: “Queen’s plans to immediately renovate and strengthen the Emergency Department and diagnostic services. Because Queen’s Medical Center—Wahiawa is the nearest emergency department for the residents of Wahiawa, Central O‘ahu and the North Shore, this will be our initial priority.

“We are committed to reopening an enhanced emergency department at Queen’s Medical Center-Wahiawa that best serves the needs of the people in the community. We anticipate opening in the summer of 2024.”

The community stands to benefit from the acquisition, gaining access to the extensive network of more than 700 physicians and specialists from Queen's University Medical Group (QUMG).

This integration promises expanded clinical services and access to advanced resources for specialised care.

Wahiawa General Hospital CEO Brian Cunningham said: “In today’s rapidly changing health care environment, we must consistently expand and enhance care and delivery models.

“I am grateful that Wahiawa, and the communities of Central O‘ahu and the North Shore, will be a part of The Queen’s Health System, and leadership from both organisations are committed to making this transition as seamless as possible.”

In a commitment to continuity and community employment, Queen's has offered positions to nearly 100 WGH caregivers.

Current WGH employees were also encouraged to consider the array of opportunities now available across Queen's various locations.