Waianae District Comprehensive Health and Hospital Board, Incorporated

Background

Established in 1972, the Waianae District Comprehensive Health and Hospital Board, Incorporated, operating as the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center (WCCHC), is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) located in Waianae, Hawaii. Serving the medically underserved residents of West Oahu, WCCHC provides comprehensive primary, dental, behavioral health, and enabling services through its main facility, five satellite sites, four school-based clinics, and a vision center. Notably, it operates Hawaii's only stand-alone emergency department outside a hospital setting.

Mission Statement:

WCCHC is committed to providing accessible and affordable medical and traditional healing services with aloha, offering health career training to ensure a better future for the community, and utilizing leading-edge technology to deliver the highest quality of medical services.

Key Strategic Focus

WCCHC's strategic focus encompasses:

Core Objectives: Delivering comprehensive healthcare services to the underserved populations of West Oahu, integrating traditional healing practices with modern medical care, and promoting community health education and wellness.

Areas of Specialization: Primary care, dental services, behavioral health, emergency medical services, and traditional Native Hawaiian healing practices.

Key Technologies Utilized: Implementation of digital enrollment kiosks for Medicaid and SNAP applications, telehealth services, and advanced medical equipment to enhance patient care.

Primary Markets Targeted: Residents of West Oahu, particularly those living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, with a significant focus on Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian communities.

Financials and Funding

In 2023, WCCHC reported:

Total Revenue: $94,355,130

Total Expenses: $89,186,476

Total Assets: $118,366,120

Number of Employees: 753

The organization has received federal grants, including a $387,790.72 award from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture for the West Oahu Produce Rx Program, aimed at improving access to nutritious food for low-income individuals.

Pipeline Development

WCCHC is actively involved in community health initiatives, such as the West Oahu Produce Rx Program, which provides produce prescription incentives to eligible participants to improve dietary habits and health outcomes. The program is scheduled to launch on February 10th, aligning with WCCHC's annual community event, the Eat Local Challenge.

Technological Platform and Innovation

WCCHC employs several innovative technologies:

Proprietary Technologies: Digital Enrollment Kiosks for Medicaid and SNAP applications, enhancing accessibility and efficiency in patient enrollment processes.

Significant Scientific Methods: Utilization of telehealth services to expand access to care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the integration of electronic medical records to streamline patient care.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at WCCHC includes:

Richard P. Bettini: President and Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the organization's strategic direction and operations.

Denise Pronesti: Director of Risk Management & Patient Safety, responsible for ensuring patient safety and managing organizational risks.

George Beha: Chief Technology Officer, leading the implementation and management of technological initiatives within the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics:

The healthcare sector in Hawaii is characterized by a mix of public and private providers, with a significant emphasis on community health centers serving underserved populations. The market is influenced by factors such as population demographics, economic disparities, and the prevalence of chronic health conditions.

Competitor Analysis:

Key competitors in the region include:

Hawaii Pacific Health: A major healthcare provider in Hawaii, offering a wide range of medical services across multiple facilities.

Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, Inc.: Provides comprehensive healthcare services as part of the Kaiser Permanente system in Hawaii.

Kauai Medical Clinic: Offers medical services to the residents of Kauai, focusing on primary and specialty care.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships:

WCCHC collaborates with various community organizations, government agencies, and healthcare providers to enhance service delivery and address community health needs. Notably, it operates Hawaii's only stand-alone emergency department outside a hospital setting, providing critical care services to the community.

Operational Insights:

WCCHC's strategic considerations include:

Major Competitors: Hawaii Pacific Health, Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, Inc., and Kauai Medical Clinic.

Market Position: As a leading community health center, WCCHC holds a significant position in serving the underserved populations of West Oahu.

Competitive Advantages: Comprehensive service offerings, integration of traditional healing practices, and a strong commitment to community health and wellness.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions:

WCCHC aims to expand its services, enhance technological capabilities, and strengthen community partnerships to improve health outcomes. The organization is exploring opportunities to address food insecurity through programs like the West Oahu Produce Rx Program and is committed to integrating innovative healthcare delivery models to meet the evolving needs of the community.