Hilo Medical Center

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  • Interior

    Entrance to the Cardiology Clinic at a Medical Center.

  • Building

    The entrance to Hilo Medical Center, surrounded by palm trees and a modern architectural design.

  • Architecture

    A modern building featuring sleek lines and palm trees in the background.

  • Bedroom

    A hospital room featuring a bed, medical equipment, and artwork on the wall.

  • Landscaping

    A sunny day with palm trees swaying under the bright sky.

  • Entrance

    A set of double wooden doors with glass windows, featuring a metal panel, commonly found in a hospital or institutional setting.

  • Nature

    A serene black and white photograph depicting rural buildings surrounded by nature.

  • Palm Trees

    The exterior of Hilo Medical Center with palm trees lining the front.

  • Waiting Area

    Entrance to a medical facility featuring a waiting area and informational signage.

  • Healthcare

    A medical cart equipped with monitoring devices in a hospital environment.

Hilo Medical Center

1190 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.3 from 100 reviews
5 stars
50
4 stars
7
3 stars
1
2 stars
4
1 stars
38

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Hilo Medical Center

Pros

  • pro Hilo Medical Center has amazing staff.
  • pro The ER team was professional, efficient, and welcoming.
  • pro Doctors and nurses are wonderful.
  • pro The hospital's system was among the best, and many people sincerely helped the family.
  • pro The staff showed humanity and went beyond kindness.
  • pro Henry helped interpret Korean, and Cindy assisted with administrative tasks, easing the hectic process.

Cons

  • pro The nurse mixed up patient names over the phone and spoke about another patient, showing a failure to verify identity.
  • pro The imaging technologist pressed the X-ray beam against the chest and performed high-exposure images without warning or consent, causing lasting burns and pain.
  • pro The investigation into the imaging incident was closed with denial and no accountability, and requests for documents were ignored.
  • pro The ER staff displayed a rude, dismissive attitude and long wait times, with neglect of basic patient needs like blankets.
  • pro The cafeteria staff were uncaring about allergies and provided slow service.
  • pro A laser procedure left burns and long-term pain, with poor complaint handling and safety concerns.
  • pro One reviewer described the vascular department as completely incompetent, leading to permanent damage.

Review

Hilo Medical Center presents a complex portrait in the experiences shared by patients, families, and staff. On one hand, there are stories of quick action, compassionate care, and staff who went above and beyond in language- and culture-rich circumstances. On the other hand, there are accounts of miscommunication, safety concerns, slow service, and frustrations with processes that left patients feeling overlooked or at risk. Taken together, the collection reveals a hospital that can be deeply humane and remarkably capable in times of crisis, yet also a place where administrative and clinical gaps have real consequences for patients and their families.

One family recounts a frightening incident at Richardson Beach, where a loved one suddenly fell unconscious underwater and was rescued by a beach response team. The patient's journey through the hospital became a test of teamwork and cross-cultural communication. The family praised a wide array of individuals who helped during a chaotic period: Dr. Alexia McIntyre, ER nurse Kat, and interpreters like Maddie and Henry who facilitated Korean-language communication; Cindy who handled hospital finances and logistics; Sheila who oversaw hospital expenses; a male nurse from Singapore who contributed to the father's recovery in intensive care; and a tall female nurse who offered sustained kindness and smiles. What stood out was not only the clinical care but the humanity shown to foreign-language families who were navigating new medical terms and urgent decisions. In this account, the hospital system itself felt like it was functioning well enough to restore a sense of hope, and the staff's dedication was a beacon in a moment of fear.

Another family's gratitude underscores the personal connections that can accompany a traumatic medical event. They describe their father's recovery after severe hypoxia and a prolonged ICU stay, and they repeatedly emphasize the hospital's ability to provide compassionate, competent care even when the situation was chaotic and emotionally taxing. This set of memories centers on the seemingly tireless assistance from a broad spectrum of hospital workers - doctors, nurses, transport staff, interpreters, and administrative teams - whose coordinated efforts helped their family to "cherish a second life" with their father. The tone is respectful and effusive: Hilo Medical Center is praised as a place where human beings exposed to fear and uncertainty can be treated with dignity and hope.

Across a different thread, another reviewer lauds the hospital for a generally positive ER experience: "Very professional, efficient and welcoming." The patient singled out Dr. Erin McDonough and the ER team for their care during a five-hour visit, noting that the overall experience was comforting and informative despite the pain involved. A separate anecdote describes a successful post-accident outcome after an elbow dislocation, with praise for the entire chain of responders - paramedics, nurses, doctors, and clerical staff - who delivered prompt explanations and clear communication throughout the process. Taken together, these accounts highlight a pattern of respect for clinicians, efficiency in the ED, and a reassurance that competent care is accessible during emergencies.

Yet, alongside these positive experiences, there are significant concerns voiced about safety, communications, and accountability. A May 18 imaging visit is detailed with a troubling sequence: the patient had clearly stated a preference to avoid imaging, but a technologist allegedly disregarded safety questions, failed to obtain informed consent, and performed multiple high-dose exposures without appropriate warnings or protective measures. The patient reports immediate chest and throat burning and, months later, ongoing sensitivity and pain. The promised access to original imaging documentation, audit trails, and full data was not fulfilled, and the subsequent investigation was described as closed with denial and no explanation. The patient asserts a lack of accountability and notes that the patient advocate stopped assisting after the mention of legal counsel. This account highlights concerns about patient safety practices, transparency, and how complaints are handled within the system.

Other voices echo mixed experiences. A reviewer cautions: do not rely on the hospital for anything beyond basic needs, recounting a laser-procedure outcome that left long-term harm and a history of difficulty with complaint reporting. There are also criticisms about the ER intake process, with one patient describing slow service and a staff member who spoke to them with a noticeably negative demeanor. And a broader perspective from a long-time patient paints a nuanced picture: while personal clinicians have been consistently good and communication has often been strong, there have been isolated instances of attitude problems and miscommunications at points of triage or check-in that colored overall impressions.

In addition to medical care, there are comments about ancillary services that affect daily experiences inside the hospital. Some praise the psychiatric ward and the supportive staff in therapeutic settings, including a clinician named Ona who provides a calm, nonjudgmental environment with plenty of arts and crafts options. There are, however, recurring notes about the cafeteria and dining experience - messaging about allergies (such as gluten-free needs) and service speed - where some patients felt the food service did not meet their expectations. These remarks remind readers that hospital experiences extend beyond bedside care and into every interaction that shapes a patient's day.

The spectrum of reviews also includes a longstanding, almost comic-by-contrast lament from a patient who described repeated visits over several years. They spoke with warmth about many colleagues - calling them excellent in communication and care - while simultaneously recounting at least one ER intake encounter that felt dismissive. The same account mentions serious concerns about possible medical missteps elsewhere, including a reference to outdated or questionable surgical practices and devices. While it is possible these claims reflect a few isolated experiences rather than a systemic pattern, they nonetheless contribute to a broader sense of unevenness in patient safety and consistency of care that some patients perceive at Hilo Medical Center.

Taken as a whole, the experiences converge on a central truth: Hilo Medical Center is a place where life-changing events can be met with extraordinary dedication, empathy, and professional skill. In times of crisis, many patients and families speak of staff who listen, explain, and act with urgency and compassion. Yet the same voices also insist on stronger safeguards - clearer communication, rigorous adherence to patient safety protocols, transparent investigations when something goes wrong, and more attentive, inclusive service at every touchpoint, from the ED triage to the cafeteria line. The hospital's potential to be a sanctuary of healing is evident in the examples of outstanding care; the challenge is translating that potential into consistently reliable, accountable experiences for every patient who walks through the doors.

Features

Housing

  • 35 resident community capacity 35 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Hilo International (4 miles away) Hilo International (4 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

The Hilo Medical Center in Hilo, HI is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of its residents. The community provides cable or satellite TV for entertainment, a dining room for communal meals, and fully furnished accommodations for convenience. Residents can enjoy the beautiful outdoor space and garden, as well as have access to Wi-Fi/high-speed internet.

Care services at Hilo Medical Center include 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The community also provides diabetes diet management, medication management, and meal preparation and service. A mental wellness program is available to support residents' emotional and psychological wellbeing. Special dietary restrictions are accommodated to meet individual needs.

Residents at Hilo Medical Center can participate in resident-run activities and enjoy scheduled daily activities to promote social interaction and engagement. Additionally, there are numerous amenities nearby including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals.

Overall, Hilo Medical Center offers a supportive environment where residents can receive personalized care services while enjoying a variety of amenities and convenient access to nearby amenities in the surrounding community.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Hilo, Hawaii, offers a convenient and diverse range of amenities for seniors looking to settle in the area. With healthcare facilities such as East Hawaii Health Clinic and Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center nearby, residents have access to quality medical care. The proximity of Hilo Medical Center ensures easy access to hospital services. The abundance of parks like Wailuku River State Park and Rainbow Falls Park provide opportunities for leisurely strolls and enjoying nature. Various places of worship are within a few miles, including Kaumana Drive Baptist Church and New Hope Christian Fellowship. Additionally, there are several dining options ranging from local eateries like Pete's Belly Bustazs to familiar chains like McDonald's. Pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy and Longs Drugs are easily accessible for medication needs. Transportation options such as AA Marshall's Taxi and U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer make getting around town convenient. Overall, this area offers a well-rounded community environment for seniors to enjoy their golden years in Hilo.

Physicians

  • Okamura, Charles East Hawaii Health Clinic (0 miles)
  • East Hawaii Health Clinic - Primary Care (0 miles)
  • East Hawaii Health - Cancer Center (0.1 miles)
  • East Hawaii Health - Otolaryngology (ENT) (0.1 miles)
  • Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center (0.1 miles)
  • ATM at Kaiser Hilo (0.2 miles)
  • Hra Womens Imaging Cen (1 miles)

Hospitals

  • Hilo Medical Center (0.1 miles)

Parks

  • Wailuku River State Park (0.2 miles)
  • Rainbow Falls Park (0.3 miles)
  • Pe‘epe‘e Boiling Pots (1.2 miles)
  • Mo’oheau Park (1.8 miles)
  • University Heights Park (2 miles)
  • Isles Beach Park (2.8 miles)
  • Lili‘uokalani Park And Gardens (2.9 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Kaumana Drive Baptist Church (0.7 miles)
  • Southern Baptist Convention (2.2 miles)
  • Crossnet Ministries (2.4 miles)
  • New Hope Christian Fellowship (3.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • Pete's Belly Bustazs (1 miles)
  • Kozmic Cones (1.5 miles)
  • Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Hilo (1.7 miles)
  • The Temple Bar (1.7 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.7 miles)
  • L & L Drive Inn (1.7 miles)
  • Hilo Town Tavern (1.7 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • Kta Super Stores (1.8 miles)
  • Pharmerica (1.8 miles)
  • Shiigi Drug Co. (2 miles)
  • Longs Drugs (2.1 miles)
  • Kta Super Stores (3.5 miles)
  • KTA Puainako Pharmacy (3.5 miles)

Transportation

  • AA Marshall's Taxi (1.6 miles)
  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (3.1 miles)
  • Aiona U-Rent Car (3.3 miles)
  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (3.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Nector Cafe (1.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (2 miles)
  • Just Cruisin Coffee (2.3 miles)
  • Big Island Pearl Tea (2.9 miles)
  • Popover (3.2 miles)
  • VIBE Cafe & Health Bar (3.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Prince Kuhio (3.5 miles)

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