Jay Kreuzer, new CEO of Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital, started his first day on Monday, March 28. The past couple of weeks have been a true testament of his commitment to these hospitals and community. When he was offered the position, it prompted him to schedule his routine yearly check-up which revealed that he needed to have surgery done for preventative measures.
In light of his initial arrival date of Monday, March 14, the West Hawaii Regional Board of Directors and Senior Leadership of Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital encouraged Jay to think of his health first and foremost. They also believed it would be in his best interest to have the procedure performed in a familiar setting in Chicago and be surrounded by his loved ones.
“We are fortunate that Jay was able to take care of this medical condition before he arrived in Kona, and that it may have saved his life,” commented Ali Bairos, M.D, Chair of the West Hawaii Regional Board of Directors. “Being in a hospital setting, it is ironic that this occurred, and is a perfect example of how routine check-ups and visits to your doctor can actually help. We are excited to have him on board because he comes with a wealth of knowledge, experience and long tenures. Our decision to offer the position to him seems more right now than ever before.”
When asked about his sentiments of the entire situation, Jay Kreuzer responded, “I was upset at first when I heard of the news that I had to be delayed especially having committed to coming sooner than later. But, I was also extremely thankful. It was truly a blessing in disguise. I am doing well, and my doctor has given me a clean bill of health. Now, I am more than ready to provide the foundation and support that the hospitals need.”
His wife, Jean, a school nurse, will join him in Kona once the school year is over. They are both looking forward to being part of the Kona community.
Founded in 1914, Kona Community Hospital is a 94-bed full-service hospital with 24-hour emergency services that supports the west region of the island of Hawaii. It is a member of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, a special agency of the state of Hawaii established in 1996. It is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Kona Community Hospital is dedicated to providing and enhancing accessible comprehensive healthcare services to the West Hawaii community.
Kohala Hospital is a Critical Access Hospital with acute and long-term care services and a 24-hour emergency room that supports the North Kohala community. It is a member of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, a special agency of the state of Hawaii established in 1996. Its mission is to provide a “healing” environment to the community of North Kohala through the provision of quality health care services with emphasis on quality of life to all patients and residents.