KEALAKEKUA – West Hawaii Region (WHR) of Hawaii Health Systems Corporation announced Kona Community Hospital (KCH) has earned the Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals from the Joint Commission, an independent, evidence-based standards setting organization that sets the benchmark for safe, high-quality patient care through healthcare accreditation. This accomplishment formally recognizes West Hawaii Region’s ongoing commitment to meeting rigorous performance standards and delivering the safest, highest quality care to its patients.
WHR underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey this summer. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission surveyors assessed compliance across key areas such as emergency management, physical environment, infection prevention and control, leadership, medication management and performance improvement, among others.
“This accreditation is a reflection of how our staff shows up for every patient, every day,” said Clayton McGhan, regional CEO of WHR. “We are committed to the quality and excellence needed to provide care and strengthen our relationship with the community, and I am grateful for their dedication and attention to safe, high-quality care.”
Joint Commission surveyors conducted on-site observations and interviews to identify performance strengths and opportunities for continued improvement. With decades of expertise and a data-driven accreditation process, Joint Commission helps ensure healthcare organizations adhere to leading quality and safety practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and commitment to better patient care.
“Joint Commission congratulates Kona Community Hospital for achieving accreditation by demonstrating its focus on delivering safe and effective care of the highest quality and value,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, Joint Commission. “Through the accreditation process, we worked closely with Kona Community Hospital to enable and affirm the highest standards of healthcare quality and patient safety. Together, we are elevating care for all patients, and we appreciate Kona Community Hospital’s collaboration throughout this process.”
The accreditation reflects the work KCH staff provide on any given day. Employees across every department prepared by remaining present with patients and one another, understanding the standards behind their work and remaining willing to learn and improve. The Joint Commission hospital accreditation is triennial, requiring a full survey every three years.
For more information, please visit
Joint Commission’s website.
ABOUT WEST HAWAII REGION
West Hawaii Region comprises Kona Community Hospital, Kohala Hospital and Kona Health. The region is dedicated to providing a healing environment to all the people of Hawaiʻi through delivering quality, accessible care that leads to optimal health. Both hospitals offer 24-hour emergency services and are members of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, a public entity established in 1996 by the State of Hawaiʻi to fulfill the promise of providing quality, hometown healthcare.