Doctors

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. 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.

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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Dr. Tyler Cobb joined Ali’i Health Center in 2022 as a highly skilled general surgeon, specializing in trauma, foregut, endoscopy, and a wide range of subspecialties. He earned his Doctorate of Medicine from Florida State University College of Medicine in 2015 and completed a rigorous general surgery residency at The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston. During his residency, Dr. Cobb trained at Memorial Hermann-TMC, the busiest level 1 trauma center in the nation, and MD Anderson, where he gained extensive experience in managing complex surgical and oncologic cases.

Dr. Cobb employs a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach in most of his operations, prioritizing reduced pain and faster recovery for his patients. Dedicated to delivering the highest quality of surgical care, he consistently incorporates the latest and most appropriate surgical techniques into his practice.

Board-certified through the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Cobb is committed to creating a compassionate and respectful environment for his patients and their families. His practice is built on a foundation of understanding and deep respect for the individual needs of each patient.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

Josh Johnson is a PA who practices in Orthopedics at Ali’i Health Center. Josh completed his undergraduate and masters degrees from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, TN, graduating from the PA Program at Trevecca Nazarene University in 2010. He graduated with his Doctorate in Ethical Leadership (Ed.D) in 2016 from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL, and was awarded a Dissertation with Distinction for his research, Patient Satisfaction with Care Provided by Physician Assistants in an Orthopedic Clinic.

Josh is an Associate Editor for the Journal of Orthopaedics for Physician Assistants and a Reviewer for the Journal of the American Academy of PAs. He is also an adjunct instructor in the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies at Olivet Nazarene University and is a preceptor for PA students in the Kona MEDEX PA program. In 2023, Josh was recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of PAs; a distinction earned by less than 2% PAs. He has privileges at Kona Community Hospital and Ali’i Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Natasha is a Board-certified Physician Assistant dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to the Kona community, where she was born and raised. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo and completed her Master of Clinical Health Services degree at the University of Washington MEDEX Physician Assistant Program in Kailua Kona. Before becoming a PA, Natasha spent five years working as a medical assistant in general surgery and dermatology, gaining valuable hands-on clinical experience.

Dr. Joe Miller is a board-certified urologist with extensive experience in both military and civilian healthcare, including leadership roles as Department Head and Chief of Surgery.

Dr. Miller earned his Doctor of Medicine degree and completed urology residency at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois. He then completed a fellowship in Laparoscopy and Endoscopy, with a focus on urinary stone disease, at the University of California, San Francisco.

He served as Staff Urologist, Urology Department Head and Chief of Surgery at multiple military hospitals including the US Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan, Naval Medical Center San Diego, California, and US Naval Hospital Rota, Spain. His leadership roles have encompassed direct patient care as well department operations, financial management, and implementation of best practices in surgical procedures.

Dr. Miller has worked as a urologist in several civilian hospitals, including Northern Inyo Health District in Bishop, California, El Centro Regional Medical Center in El Centro, California, Lewis Gale Medical Center, Salem, Virginia, and Guam Regional Medical City, Dededo, Guam. These diverse experiences have broadened his clinical skill set and enhanced his ability to adapt to various healthcare environments, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of patient needs across different healthcare settings.

Outside of work, Dr. Miller enjoys running, scuba diving and travel.

Darcy is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant with experience in infectious disease. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in pre-physician assistant studies from the University of Hawaii at Hilo and her Master’s degree in Clinical Health Services from the University of Washington’s MEDEX program in Kailua-Kona. During her Master’s degree training, she also received a notable amount of training in dermatology and infectious disease.

Born and raised on Hawaii island, Darcy has a well-rounded understanding of our community’s unique healthcare needs. Her goal is to offer unique and tailored treatment plans with patients’ resources, home life and cultural backgrounds in mind.

Darcy enjoys spending her free time outside on her farm, hiking and going to the beach.

Luna received her Masters of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University and her Doctor of Medical Science from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Luna also received a Masters of Healthcare Administration from Mercer University. Luna has practiced in Family Medicine in Florida, on Maui and on Big Island. Luna is a Board Certified Physician Assistant in Ali’i Health’s Primary Care Department.

Maria Oka joined Ali’i Health July of 2009 as a Nurse Practitioner for the general surgery and wound care team. She completed her BSN at Creighton university 2001 and completed MSN family NP degree at university of Nebraska medical center 2005. She also attended the University of Washington’s wound care program in 2006. She is certified through the WOCN (wound ostomy continence nursing) as an advanced practice wound care provider since 2006. Maria enjoys caring for those with wounds of all shapes, sizes, and complexities. She also enjoys first assist for general and plastic surgery cases.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

Dr Rise obtained his medical degree from the University of Florida in 2004. He then attended The Ohio State University for orthopedic surgery residency followed by orthopedic trauma fellowship training at the University of New Mexico. He is board certified by the ABOS. He specializes in orthopedic trauma and acute care in both children and adults. This includes complex fractures, musculoskeletal injuries, and infections in the arms, legs, and pelvis.

Dr. Scala was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs. She earned her BA at Duke University in French and German while completing premedical requirements. She then earned her medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Dr. Scala completed her orthopedic residency at the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawai’i and spent an additional year completing a research fellowship. Following this, she returned to Duke University where she completed a one-year fellowship in Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Scala is excited to return to Hawai’i to provide high-quality orthopedic foot and ankle care to the local community.

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.

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 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.

Dr. Zelko joined Alii Health Center in October of 2024. She is a graduate of Kealakehe High School. She graduated with her BA in Biology from Mills College. She attended John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii Manoa. She completed her Residency at Riverside University Health System. She is Board Certified and is a recipient of Certificate of Distinction (COD) in Rural Health.