Results from tests of Kona hospital staff not yet available; nearly 600 tested so far

Kona Community Hospital on Friday was unable to provide the results of COVID-19 testing performed Thursday on staff, patients, and ancillary personnel.

The blanket testing was the hospital’s proactive approach to the news of three employees testing positive at the Kealakekua facility within a four-day period.

Premier Medical Group, with assistance from the Hawaii Fire Department, EMS, National Guard and volunteers performed nearly 600 tests at the campus on Thursday. Results were expected within 24 hours, however, they were not made public as of press-time Friday.

“For now, we want the employees and our community to know that we’re doing everything in our power to reduce spread and limit exposure among patients, staff and visitors,” said hospital spokesperson Judy Donovan. “We are partnering with the Department of Health and Premier Medical Group Hawaii to provide care in the safest possible environment.”

The hospital, with the help of Premier Medical Group, will hold a pop-up COVID-19 testing clinic from 8 a.m. to noon today at the West Hawaii Civic Center. The event is geared toward family of staff, patients, visitors and anyone who came through the hospital on or after July 8 and may be concerned about possible exposure.

Those wishing to be tested should bring their insurance card and ID.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 204 patients at KCH have been tested with six positive results for COVID-19, Donovan said Thursday. Three of those cases were inpatient with the remaining three outpatients coming through the emergency room and able to isolate at home.

The hospital still has a no visitor policy in place with exceptions for OB, pediatrics and those receiving end-of-life care.