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Heather Akins
Heather Akins, APRN, NP-C
Women’s Health
Heather Akins

Heather Akins, APRN, NP-C

Women’s Health

Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner MSN, APRN, FNP-C. Heather received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Barnes Jewish College of Nursing in St. Louis, MO. She then became a NARM certified midwife in Alaska and obtained her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), FNP from Frontier Nursing University in Kentucky. She trained as a midwife in Alaska for four years, after which she obtained her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus in Family Practice from Frontier Nursing University. With almost 20 years of practice in the medical field, Heather has extensive experience in critical care in the ICU setting. She returned to the Big Island in 2019. She has a passion for the Kona community and providing compassionate care in Woman’s Health

Dr. Blum
Barry Blum, MD
Orthopedics
Dr. Blum

Barry Blum, MD

Orthopedics

Dr. Barry Blum has practiced orthopedic surgery in Kona since moving here from Northern California in 1986. He is affiliated with Kona Community Hospital and the Kona Ambulatory Surgery Center. He is one of the founding physicians of Alii Health Center. Dr. Blum received his MD degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry; his surgical internship was at the University of Minnesota Hospitals; his residency in Orthopedic Surgery was at Stanford Medical Center and his port-graduate training was at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre/Oxford University in Oxford, England. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons and member of the Western Orthopedic Association. His interests outside of medicine in Kona have included community theatre at the Aloha Performing Arts Company, paddling outrigger canoe with Kai `Opua and ethnic music.

Vivian Chang, MD
Vivian Chang, MD
Orthopedics
Vivian Chang, MD

Vivian Chang, MD

Orthopedics

Dr. Vivian Chang is an orthopedic surgeon in Kailua Kona working with Alii Health Center. She is currently the Head of Surgery at the Kona hospital. She received her medical degree from State University of New York Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine in 1990 and has been in practice for more than 20 years. Dr. Vivian Chang specializes in the diagnosis and surgical and nonsurgical treatment of skeletal- and musculoskeletal-related conditions and injuries. She is trained to treat bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and tendons. She is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

Douglas Ching MD
Douglas Ching, MD
Orthopedics
Douglas Ching MD

Douglas Ching, MD

Orthopedics

Dr. Douglas Ching is an orthopedic surgeon at Alii Health Center. He received his medical degree from University of California Irvine School of Medicine in 1998 and has been in practice for 22 years working for Maui Memorial Medical Center and now Alii Health Center. Dr. Ching specializes in Elbow pain and underlying issues, including a broken bone or multiple fractures, arthritis, or problems involving the shoulder or wrist.

Unpok Choe, MD
Unpok Choe, MD
Internal Medicine
Unpok Choe, MD

Unpok Choe, MD

Internal Medicine

Dr. Unpok Choe attended medical school at the Seoul National University College of Medicine in Seoul, Korea. He completed residency in internal medicine at St. Elizabeth Hospital Medical Center in Ohio, and was a fellow in geriatrics/geriatric medicine at the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii. Before joining Ali’i Health in October 2007, he was a geriatrician at the Senior Care of Colorado. Dr. Choe is a member of the American College of Physicians, American Medical Associates and the Hawaii Medical Association.

Clarence Church
Clarence Church, MA, LMHC
Mental Health Services
Clarence Church

Clarence Church, MA, LMHC

Mental Health Services

Meet Clarence, a dedicated professional with a passion for serving the community. A graduate from Regent University with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clarence boasts over two decades of experience working for various non-profits.

Clarence specializes in Trauma Informed Therapy, and firmly believes in the transformative power of providing the right resources and environment for healing and overall well-being. His expertise lies in Organic Intelligence (OI), Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and addressing a wide range of issues including Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, PTSD, and Self-esteem.

Clarence’s therapeutic approach is built on the foundation of valuing the therapeutic relationship. Within the therapy session, he holds a safe and nurturing space, allowing clients to be themselves and explore their emotions and experiences without judgment.

Passionate, empathetic, and skilled, Clarence is dedicated to helping individuals on their journey towards healing and personal growth. His focus on Trauma Informed Therapy and broad range of competencies make him a valuable asset in guiding clients towards a path of positive change and well-being.

 

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Tyler Cobb, MD
Tyler Cobb, MD
General Surgery
Tyler Cobb, MD

Tyler Cobb, MD

General Surgery

Regina M. Costantini
Regina M. Costantini, MD
Women’s Health
Regina M. Costantini

Regina M. Costantini, MD

Women’s Health

Dr. Regina M. Costantini, MD is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN) with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in Obstetrics & Gynecology and is board certified. Dr. Costantini graduated from University Auto De Guadalajara Faculty De Med Guadalajara Jalisco Mexico and is affiliated with Alii Health Center. She has a special interest in the diagnosis and treatment of women’s health problems.

Aimee Disharoon
Aimee Disharoon, Certified Professional Midwife
Women’s Health
Aimee Disharoon

Aimee Disharoon, Certified Professional Midwife

Women’s Health

Douglas Dixon, MD
Douglas Dixon, MD
Internal Medicine
Douglas Dixon, MD

Douglas Dixon, MD

Internal Medicine

Dr. Dixon grew up in the Chicago suburbs, and then went to school at the University of Iowa. He went to seminary after college at Emory University in Atlanta. Leaving seminary, he went to Saba University, a school in the Dutch Antilles. After residency in Internal Medicine near Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, Dr. Dixon went down to Wilmington, NC., where he worked in an inner-city clinic, then started his own medical practice.

He came out to the Pacific NW near Seattle around 2019, where he worked for Whidbey Health, and met his current wife. With his wife Judye (also a physician), 3 dogs, 3 cats, and two teenagers, Ava and Maya, Dr. Dixon joins our practice at Ali’i Health Center. Of note, his wife had lived in Kona briefly before medical school.

Dr. Dixon is currently board-certified in Internal Medicine, and sees patients from 12 and up.

Robert Dy MD
Robert Dy, MD
Gastroenterology
Robert Dy MD

Robert Dy, MD

Gastroenterology

Rob graduated from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. After finishing Internal Medicine Residency at the University of California, San Francisco and Gastroenterology Fellowship Training at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Rob completed an Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship at the Maine Medical Center, in Portland. Prior to moving to The Big Island, he served as Chief of Gastroenterology at the Straub Clinic and Hospital, in Honolulu.

Has an ERCP/EUS Fellowship at the Maine Medical Center from 1998-99 and Gastroenterology Fellowship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center from 1995-1998. Also, an Internal Medicine Residency with The University of California, San Francisco from 1992-1995. Dr Robert Dy Has published dozens of medical articles and manuscripts in most of the major GI journals. Former Chief of GI at Straub Clinic and Hospital in Honolulu.

Clay
Clayton (Clay) Foster, MD
Infectious Disease
Clay

Clayton (Clay) Foster, MD

Infectious Disease

Dr Foster earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama and completed his residency in Internal Medicine, as well as a fellowship in Infectious Diseases, at the University of Colorado. After three years in traditional Infectious Disease practice, he struck out on his own to create a solo telemedicine practice in Denver. Following a visit to Hawaii Island in the summer of 2021, he and his wife, Kelly, decided to relocate. Dr Foster is board certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease. He currently resides in Kailua-Kona, where he enjoys hiking, snorkeling and practicing aikido in his spare time.

Ly Gau, DO
Ly Gau, D.O.
Internal Medicine
Ly Gau, DO

Ly Gau, D.O.

Internal Medicine

Ly Gau, D.O. Internist and specialist for Kona Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Center Program. Dr Gau attended medical school at Michigan State University. She completed her residency in internal medicine at Michigan State University/ Genesys Regional Medical Center and was a fellow in geriatrics at the University of Michigan Health System. Before joining Ali`i Health in November 2011, she was a geriatrician, long term care and hospice medical director at the Memorial Healthcare Center in Oswosso, Michigan. She is a member of the American Geriatric Society and the American Osteopathic Association. Dr. Gau is board certified in geriatric medicine and internal medicine with the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine.

Jacqueline A. Gould, RPA-C, MS, RD
Jacqueline A. Gould, RPA-C, MS, RD
Gastroenterology
Jacqueline A. Gould, RPA-C, MS, RD

Jacqueline A. Gould, RPA-C, MS, RD

Gastroenterology

Born and raised in New York, on the North Shores of Long Island, Jacqui developed a passion for science, health and nutrition, initially becoming a Registered Dietitian after graduating from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT. As a dietitian working in many different arenas, and after she obtained her Masters degree in Nutrition at James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, she increasingly became interested in medicine, especially it’s connection with diet and nutrition.

Realizing that her life passion was to enable people to learn as much as possible about their health and how they can optimize it, she pursued a career change after learning about the role of and the significant impact that Physician Assistants have as healthcare providers. After graduating from New York City’s Weill- Cornell Physician Assistant Masters program in 2010, she initially worked in Surgical Intensive Care and Critical Care at St. Francis Hospital Heart Center. Due to a desire for continuity of care and to see patients on an ongoing basis, she accepted a position as a PA at Weill Cornell Gastroenterology in NYC, with a focus on liver diseases.

To broaden her gastroenterology experience, she moved on to accept a PA position with Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, NY (later to become NYU-Long Island Hospital). Working with a large physician academic practice, Jacqui provided services for patients with a wide range of needs including Crohns, Ulcerative Colitis, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Barrett’s Esophagus, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, SIBO, Colorectal Screening, Rectal bleeding, Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Diverticulitis, Fatty Liver (NASH), Liver, Biliary and Pancreatic diseases, including Autoimmune diseases and Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, Achalasia, Gastroparesis and other Motility Disorders such as Chronic Idiopathic Constipation.

Jacqui and her husband (along with her 2 year old black lab, Boone!), driven by their love of being outdoors, doing anything water related and desire to live in a culturally diverse and nature-enriched environment, have relocated to the Big Island of Hawaii permanently to be a part of the community, both personally and professionally. Call Ali’i Health Center to schedule your prompt consultation with PA Gould for your gastroenterology and GI-related nutrition needs.

Jennifer Hashimoto
Jennifer Hashimoto, APRN-Rx, MSN, FNP-BC
Women’s Health
Jennifer Hashimoto

Jennifer Hashimoto, APRN-Rx, MSN, FNP-BC

Women’s Health

Jennifer Hashimoto, APRN-Rx, MSN, FNP-BC, is a highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professional. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo and furthered her education with post-baccalaureate research training at the National Institute of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. In addition, Jennifer holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa.

Jennifer’s nursing career commenced at Kona Community Hospital, where she honed her professional skills and demonstrated a commitment to patient care. After achieving her APRN-FNP, she continued her journey as a Native Hawaiian Health Scholar recipient to Lāna’i Community Health Center before joining the esteemed Primary Care team at Queen’s North Hawai’i Community Hospital. Presently, Jennifer dedicates her expertise and passion for healthcare to the patients at Alii Health Centers Women’s Health Department. Born and raised on the Big Island she is dedicated to serving rural communities and is a participant of the Nurse Coprs Loan Repayment program.

David Huddleston, MD, FACS
David Huddleston, MD, FACS
General Surgery
David Huddleston, MD, FACS

David Huddleston, MD, FACS

General Surgery

Dr. David Huddleston Has joined Ali`i Health Center on June 25, 2019 and is fully trained in general surgery, including endoscopy, trauma and all subspecialties. Dr. Huddleston earned his Doctorate of Medicine in May 2007 from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, and completed his general surgery internship/residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami. Dr .David Huddleston s currently accepting new patients. We welcome both new and existing patients to the practice.

Joshua Johnson, PA-C
Joshua Johnson, PA-C
Orthopedics
Joshua Johnson, PA-C

Joshua Johnson, PA-C

Orthopedics

John Kristofich, MD
John Kristofich, MD
Cardiology
John Kristofich, MD

John Kristofich, MD

Cardiology

I was trained in cardiology at the Geisinger Medical Center, Danville PA from 1993-1996. I worked in a single specialty practice – as a noninvasive noninterventional cardiologist from 1996-2001. At the time I moved to Hawaii and worked at Straub Medical Center from 2001-2017. A brief stop in southern Tennessee from 2017 – 2021 at Southern Tennessee Regional Health System in Lawrenceburg and Pulaski. My love for Hawaii led me back here to practice on the Big Island and I am excited to be back and to serve the people of Hawaii it is my honor and a privilege that I relish. I thank you for the opportunity.

Dr. Meyer
Margaret Meyer, MD
Orthopedics
Dr. Meyer

Margaret Meyer, MD

Orthopedics

Dr. Margaret Meyer is an orthopedic surgeon at Alii Health Center. Dr Meyer is affiliated with Kona Community Hospital and The Kona Ambulatory and Surgery Center. She received her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in 1998 and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr Meyer specializes in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Sports medicine physicians are trained to provide treatment and prevention plans for those participating in sports and related physical activities. Dr. Meyer is trained to treat complications such as muscle tears and strains, concussions, tendon and ligament damage, shin splints, sports hernias, fractures, and a variety of others. Treatments may include rehabilitation services, therapies and a variety of surgical operations, among others.

Morton
Paul Morton, M.D
Orthopedics
Morton

Paul Morton, M.D

Orthopedics

Karla K. Noel MD, FAAFP
Karla K. Noel, MD, FAAFP
Family Medicine
Karla K. Noel MD, FAAFP

Karla K. Noel, MD, FAAFP

Family Medicine

Luna Noel
Luna Noel, PA-C, MMS, MHA
Family Medicine
Luna Noel

Luna Noel, PA-C, MMS, MHA

Family Medicine

Ryan Novak, MD, PharmD
Ryan Novak, MD, PharmD
Urology
Ryan Novak, MD, PharmD

Ryan Novak, MD, PharmD

Urology

Born and raised in the renowned city of Austin, MN, the birthplace of Hormel Foods and the iconic SPAM, Dr. Ryan Novak’s roots run deep within the Midwest.

Dr. Novak’s academic journey began in Austin, attending the local community college, and culminating with the completion of his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Minnesota. His commitment to medical excellence was evident when he earned his PharmD degree from the same institution in 2004. Demonstrating an indomitable spirit of dedication, Dr. Novak managed to juggle his responsibilities as an outpatient pharmacist while pursuing his medical degree. In 2008, he achieved another significant milestone by earning his MD from the University of Minnesota.

Taking his passion and expertise eastward, Dr. Novak completed his urology residency training at the esteemed Ohio State University in 2013. His commitment to serving communities led him back to his beloved Minnesota, where he practiced as a dedicated solo urologist in Grand Rapids for a decade (2013-2023).

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Novak is a devoted husband and a proud father to three boys. Together with his wife, they have built a life and legacy rooted in both medical excellence and familial commitment.

Embracing a new adventure and chapter in his life, Dr. Novak has recently joined the Alii Health Center on the Big Island of Hawaii. He’s thrilled to bring his vast experience and patient-centric approach to the Aloha State, as he begins this exciting new journey in the Pacific paradise. For those seeking expertise, compassion, and comprehensive urological care, Dr. Novak embodies a blend of Midwest values and top-tier medical training, now combined with the serene backdrop of Hawaii.

Oka
Maria Oka, APRN
General Surgery
Oka

Maria Oka, APRN

General Surgery

Marina
Marina Padilla, APRN
General Surgery
Marina

Marina Padilla, APRN

General Surgery

Palmgren
Jeffrey Palmgren, MD
Urology
Palmgren

Jeffrey Palmgren, MD

Urology

Dr. Palmgren graduated from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in 2003 and was formally the Chief of Urology at Samaritan Health Systems in Corvallis, Oregon. He now leads our Urology Department her at Alii Health Center. He specializes in the surgical option for prostate lift called UroLift, which uses tiny implants to physically hold the prostate away from the urethra. This is a mechanical opening of the area as opposed to a traditional cutting of excess tissue, which helps to minimize side effects. The procedure is performed with IV sedation and patients are able to go home the same day. There is usually no need for a catheter. He also has experience doing nephrectomies, cancer cases, prostate cases, stone disease, bladder cancer, and incontinence. He sees a large variety and is comfortable with all general urology cases.

Paulina
Paulina Plaskon, PA-C, MSc
Orthopedics
Paulina

Paulina Plaskon, PA-C, MSc

Orthopedics

A dynamic and highly skilled Physician Assistant, Paulina Plaskon has recently joined the orthopedic team at Alii Health Center in West Hawaii, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and diverse experience. Holding a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant studies from Wagner College, Staten Island, where she consistently graced the Dean’s List, Paulina is licensed to practice in Hawaii and is also NCCPA certified. Her unique educational background is complemented by a Master of Science in Cosmetic Chemistry from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and a Magna cum Laude Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science from the prestigious University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Paulina’s professional journey paints a vivid picture of her commitment to medical excellence. At the renowned Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, she has held various roles, from assisting Dr. Ernest Sink, the Chief of Hip Preservation Service, in intricate orthopedic surgeries to specializing in pain management. Her experience has been expansive, managing acute to chronic pain patients and delivering comprehensive pre and post-operative care for orthopedic patients. Notably, during the pandemic, she played a crucial role in the treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, both pre and postintubation. Her earlier roles in clinical microbiology at Quest Diagnostics and overseeing operations at Meadowlands Medical Center further underline her multifaceted medical expertise. Beyond her regular roles, Paulina’s clinical training has spanned across various specialties, from Psychiatry at Staten Island University Hospital to Orthopedics at the esteemed Royal Orthopedics Hospital in Birmingham, England. A global citizen at heart, she has also participated in medical mission trips, extending her skills and compassion to communities in Guatemala and Peru. A dedicated member of several professional affiliations, including the Physician Assistant Association and Sigma Xi Biological Research Society, Paulina continuously seeks to enhance her knowledge and contribute to the broader medical community. Her accolades are not limited to the medical field; she was the First Runner-up in the Miss Polonia Pageant in 2007 and is fluent in both English and Polish. Today, as Paulina embarks on her new journey in West Hawaii, Alii Health Center is indeed fortunate to have such a diverse and accomplished professional joining their ranks.

Dr. Chris Porter
Christopher R. Porter, MD
Urology
Dr. Christopher R. Porter, a renowned Urologist, joins us with a rich background in prostate and testicular cancer care from the University of Washington and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.
Dr. Chris Porter

Christopher R. Porter, MD

Urology

Dr. Christopher R. Porter, MD, a distinguished figure in the field of Urology, has made significant contributions to the domain throughout his illustrious career. He serves as the Clinical Professor of Urology at the University of Washington and holds pivotal roles at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) as the Director of Urologic Oncology and Fellowship Director in Urologic Oncology. Additionally, he is the Medical Director for Research for VMFH. His academic journey saw him graduating from the University of Michigan with degrees in Microbiology and Philosophy, followed by earning his medical degree from Rush University in Chicago. His surgical training in urology was completed at Brown, and he further specialized with a Fellowship in Urologic Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering.

During his fellowship, Dr. Porter collaborated closely with Dr. Fair, exploring innovative methods for prostate cancer detection. This research ignited his interest in prostate cancer imaging, subsequently leading him to participate and chair the Urologic Diagnostic and Therapeutic Imaging Committee at the AUA.

After his Fellowship, Dr. Porter joined the faculty at Georgetown, later relocating to Seattle in 2002 to join the faculty at Virginia Mason. His enduring passion for research is evident through his authorship of more than 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters, primarily focusing on prostate cancer, diagnostic imaging, and testicular cancer. His commendable work has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, such as the AUA Leadership Award and the Outstanding Service Award at the Western Section AUA. He also held the position of Western Section President and has been a proud AUA member since 1999.

In a delightful turn of personal and professional journey, Dr. Porter has made his home on the Big Island of Hawaii, where he not only indulges in his love for sailing but also serves as a boat captain. His expertise in Urology has found a new avenue at Alii Health Center, where he has recently joined as their newest urologist. Balancing a rich professional life with a vibrant personal life, Dr. Porter continues to navigate through his career and hobbies with equal passion and dedication, contributing to healthcare while also enjoying the serene and adventurous sailing experiences that Hawaii offers.

Lexi-Pratt-PA-C
Lexie Pratt, PA-C
Urology
Lexi-Pratt-PA-C

Lexie Pratt, PA-C

Urology

Lexie Pratt, PA-C, is a skilled Physician Assistant currently practicing in the Urology department at Ali’i Health Center. With a focus on serving rural and underserved communities, Lexie is dedicated to making high-quality healthcare accessible to all.

Born and raised in Colorado, Lexie’s affinity for outdoor activities was nurtured by the state’s diverse natural environment. This love for nature extended to her travels, and Lexie was fortunate to explore a variety of landscapes and cultures around the world. Among her travels, she developed a particular fondness for the Big Island of Hawaii, a place that she always dreamt of calling home. Today, she’s thrilled to have the opportunity to work and live in such an incredible location. When Lexie isn’t in the clinic, you can often find her hiking, snorkeling, or enjoying the vibrant local culture of the Big Island.

Lexie’s journey into the healthcare field began at Northeastern University in Boston, MA, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Health Science. Her passion for medicine continued to flourish, leading her to pursue further education at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. There, she earned her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies, demonstrating exceptional understanding and skill in the field.

Throughout her education and training, Lexie demonstrated a natural ability to connect with patients and an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. Her professional approach, coupled with a genuine passion for serving the community, quickly distinguished her as a valuable asset to any medical team.

Now at Ali’i Health Center, Lexie brings her dedication to the Urology department. As part of the Ali’i team, she continues her efforts to deliver top-tier healthcare in the heart of the Big Island’s rural community. Lexie’s commitment to her patients goes beyond providing immediate care; she believes in education and empowerment, enabling her patients to make informed decisions about their health.

With Lexie Pratt, PA-C, patients at Ali’i Health Center can expect comprehensive, compassionate, and personalized care. Her expertise in Urology, along with her passion for serving the underserved, ensures that each patient receives the quality care they deserve.

Arun Reddy, MD
Arun Reddy, MD
Orthopedics
Arun Reddy, MD

Arun Reddy, MD

Orthopedics

In 2008 graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City where he earned my Doctor of Medicine and Bachelor of Liberal Arts degrees. He completed my Residency in Orthopedic Surgery at Loyola University Medical Center in 2014. From there he went on to the Cincinnati Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Institute where he completed my Fellowship in Sports Medicine in 2015.

His training has given him expertise in a wide range of orthopedic procedure using the latest techniques and technology, including minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, ligament and tendon repairs, and fracture care. In addition, he has extensive experience with shoulder replacement surgery and revisions (redo procedures for previously failed surgeries), and hip replacement surgery using the anterior approach.

Prior to moving to Kona, he was working in private practice in the Chicago area, where he was awarded by the hospital for providing exemplary compassionate care. I have treated many athletes—from the weekend warrior to collegiate and even the pros. He has experience treating workers with job related injuries, and people with joint pain keeping them from enjoying their hobbies and living their everyday life.

Dr Reddy’s philosophy is to get his patients back in the game or back to their hobbies as quickly and safely as possible, and to ensure all non-surgical options are considered prior to recommending surgery.
Dr Reddy operates locally at Kona Community Hospital and Kona Surgery Center.

Wesley J. Sugai, MD
Wesley J. Sugai, MD
Pediatrics
Wesley J. Sugai, MD

Wesley J. Sugai, MD

Pediatrics

Dr. Wesley J. Sugai is a well-respected pediatrician in West Hawaii and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area. He has been in practice for more than 20 years. Dr. Sugai completed a residency at Kapiolani Women’s & Children’s Hospital. Dr. Sugai is board certified in Pediatrics, dedicated to helping children of all ages. He provides comprehensive medical treatment for babies, kids & adolescents. As a pediatrician, Dr. Sugai functions as a primary care provider, the first point of contact when a patient is sick. Dr. Sugai is trained to provide well-rounded health care for children of all ages and works very closely with the patient’s parents & family to make sure that the child is developing & growing properly.

Genia Taitano MD
Genia Taitano, MD
General Surgery
Dr. Genia Taitano, our new Trauma Medical Director at Kona Community Hospital, specializes in critical care and colorectal surgery. With her roots in Hawaii, she combines advanced surgical skills with a deep understanding of our community’s needs.
Genia Taitano MD

Genia Taitano, MD

General Surgery

Dr. Genia Taitano, our new Trauma Medical Director at Kona Community Hospital, specializes in critical care and colorectal surgery. With her roots in Hawaii, she combines advanced surgical skills with a deep understanding of our community’s needs.

Dr. Conrad Tirre
Conrad J. Tirre, MD, FACS
Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery
Dr. Conrad Tirre

Conrad J. Tirre, MD, FACS

Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery

Dr. Conrad Tirre received his medical degree from Saint Louis University and completed his plastic Surgery Residency at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. Dr. Tirre then completed a highly skilled and rigorous Hand and Microsurgical Fellowship at the Oregon Health Sciences Center. Dr. Tirre is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery,as well as holding his Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand.

Dr. Conrad Tirre performed plastic, hand, and complex microsurgery (including limb salvage/reattachment) in Denver, Colorado for more than twenty years. After visiting Hawaii Island for several years with his wife, they decided to join the community full time in 2019. Dr.Tirre was excited to join the prestigious Ali’I Health Center and offer plastic, hand, and reconstructive services to the Big Island.

Dr. Tirre is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Northwest Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a former Associate Professor at the University of Colorado Department of Plastic Surgery.

Traxler
Christine Traxler, MD
General Practice
Traxler

Christine Traxler, MD

General Practice

Christine Traxler MD is a family physician, lifelong writer, and author with interests in mental health, women’s healthcare, nutrition, and the physical after-effects of psychological trauma. As a life-long writer of dozens of books and hundreds of online blogs, she brings a holistic focus to her work that emphasizes healing and wellness through daily self-care, connecting with others, and setting stepwise goals toward achieving more balanced and authentic lives. Her writing reflects her passion for sharing with others the essential tools they may need to find what matters in their own lives and learn how to nurture those parts – regardless of where they came from or the kind of person they wish to become.

Diane Tsai, MD
Diane Tsai, MD
Radiation Oncology
Dr. Tsai, a board-certified Radiation Oncologist, brings a patient-centered approach to cancer care, backed by her expertise from Johns Hopkins University.
Diane Tsai, MD

Diane Tsai, MD

Radiation Oncology

Dr. Tsai, a board-certified Radiation Oncologist, brings a patient-centered approach to cancer care, backed by her expertise from Johns Hopkins University.

Dr. Tsai’s illustrious academic journey commenced at Johns Hopkins University, where she completed her undergraduate studies. Embracing her roots, she returned to New Jersey for her medical degree at the prestigious University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Her dedication to internal medicine was further honed during her internship in Primary Care Internal Medicine at Yale. Dr. Tsai then circled back to Johns Hopkins Hospital, solidifying her expertise in Radiation Oncology.

Board Certification and Professional Prowess
The American Board of Radiology recognizes Dr. Tsai as a board-certified specialist, a testament to her profound knowledge and skills. Her career is marked by influential roles, including serving on the faculty at Georgetown University Medical Center. With decades of experience in the field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to patient care.

Specialized Focus for Comprehensive Care
Dr. Tsai’s proficiency encompasses all facets of radiation oncology, with a keen interest in treating cancers of the breast, prostate, gastrointestinal tract, and central nervous system. Her approach is holistic, combining clinical acumen, advanced technical skills, and a compassionate, patient-centered ethos.

A Passion for Life and Community
Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. Tsai is an avid enthusiast of cooking, food, design, music, film, and outdoor activities. Her multifaceted interests reflect her holistic approach to life and healthcare, underscoring her belief in the importance of balance and wellness in both personal and professional realms.

A Milestone for West Hawaii’s Healthcare
Dr. Tsai’s arrival at Ali’i Health and Kona Community Hospital is more than an addition of a medical professional; it represents Ali’i Health Center’s unwavering commitment to bringing world-class healthcare to the Big Island. Her expertise will significantly enhance the quality of cancer care available to the residents of West Hawaii, aligning with the center’s mission of comprehensive, compassionate care.

Jaime Westlund
Jaime A. Westlund, MSN, APRN, NP-C
Certified CoolSculpting Provider
Jaime Westlund

Jaime A. Westlund, MSN, APRN, NP-C

Certified CoolSculpting Provider

Jaime Westlund is certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and is currently working on her doctorate of nurse practices. She began working in the medical field in 2005 in a variety of capacities including, National Certified Medical Assistant, National Certified Phlebotomy Technician, X-Ray Technician, Bone Densitometry Technician, and Wound Skin Ostomy Certified. She obtained her Registered Nursing degree from BYU-Idaho and worked as an RN for eight years before returning to Frontier Nursing University in Hyden Kentucky to complete her masters in nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner education. She is married to her husband David and together they have four beautiful children McKade, Jossalyn, McGregor, and Nattalyn.

Jaime’s favorite quote is by Pablo Casals “The capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.”

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