LIHUE — As Kauai’s health needs have evolved, Malama Pono Health Services has changed as well, breaking down barriers to quality care, support and education for all, and serving those in need since 1986, said Mistee Bailey-Myrick, MPHS president and CEO.
Since 1995, the Society for Public Health Education has celebrated National Health Education Week (initially in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) during the third week of October.
“Here in our new clinic, we are thankful to acknowledge National Health Education Week and take this opportunity to remind everyone on our island to be your own health advocate,” said Bailey-Myrick.
“It doesn’t matter your level of income, your gender identity, your sexual orientation or how healthy you are right now. Malama Pono Health Services is here for you, providing a wide range of health, education and support services,” she said.
Malama Pono Health Services provides women’s wellness and reproductive health care, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases including hepatitis B and C, case management and support services for HIV/AIDS clients, smoking-cessation programs, transgender services, parenting programs and more.
In addition to their health clinic in Lihue, the MPHS mobile health unit travels islandwide to populations that might otherwise go unserved due to lack of transportation and health insurance.
National Health Education Week featured a weeklong series of events nationwide. This year’s theme was Elevating Health for All.
“At MPHS, anyone can stop by our offices, and if you mention National Health Education Week, you can receive some free MPHS swag,” Bailey-Myrick said.
“Most importantly, if you are in need of health services or support, or if you need good, solid educational information, turn to us. Stop by our new clinic across from Taco Bell in Lihue (in the old Kauai Athletic Club building), call us at 246-9577, or visit our website at mphskauai.org,” she said. “We want all of Kauai’s people to be healthy and happy.”
“Everyone deserves to be treated with compassion and dignity. Our team of doctors, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, caseworkers and educators has a direct, powerful, and positive impact on those who need it the most,” she said.
”During this (celebration of) National Health Education Week, take the time to address your health needs and maintain your good health.”
