Kaiser Permanente starts construction on new oncology wing

HONOLULU - Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii celebrated the start of construction of a new hematology and medical oncology wing at the Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center, marking a significant investment in the future of cancer care for Hawaii's communities. Located on the first floor of the hospital's Diamond Head Tower, the Kaiser Permanente Cancer Center at Moanalua will bring together patients, family, and their caregivers in a healing environment designed for comfort, connection, and clinical excellence.

The 12,500-square-foot wing will be nearly triple the size of the existing space, and will feature abundant natural light, views of the recently renovated healing courtyard garden, and an open layout that fosters collaboration among care teams. Larger patient rooms and infusion bays will provide added comfort and space for families, while nearby clinic, laboratory, and pharmacy services will ensure seamless, convenient care.

"Cancer care is a shared journey - a true partnership - and we see our patients as family," said Jennifer Carney, MD, chief of oncology and hematology at Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii. "Treating patients like family means bringing together a whole team of providers and specialists; working together to deliver coordinated, compassionate care; and continuing to invest in the people, partnerships, and infrastructure that make that possible."

"This investment reflects our commitment to putting members at the center of all we do," said Ed Chan, MHA, RD, FACHE, market president for Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii. "By creating a space that supports both clinical excellence and emotional well-being, we're ensuring that patients and families receive compassionate, high-quality care throughout their cancer journey."

"As cancer care becomes more complex and incorporates even more specializations, we saw an opportunity to create a space that better supports both our patients and our care teams," said John Yang, MD, president and medical director, Hawaii Permanente Medical Group. "By bringing care teams together in one thoughtfully designed environment, we can strengthen collaboration, improve continuity, and continue delivering high-quality, coordinated care."

Moanalua Medical Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, reflecting its adherence to rigorous national standards for high-quality, coordinated cancer care across the full continuum - from prevention and diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and beyond. This comprehensive approach is why Kaiser Permanente members are 20% less likely to lose years of life due to cancer compared to nonmembers. In addition, Kaiser Permanente of Hawaii's outpatient oncology practices are certified through the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative - one of only two practices in the state with this distinction - recognizing a commitment to evidence-based quality measures that support safer care and better patient outcomes.

For eight consecutive years, Moanalua Medical Center has been named one of America's Best Hospitals for cancer care by the Women's Choice Award. U.S. News & World Report has rated Moanalua Medical Center high performing in six key areas, including colon cancer surgery. Kaiser Permanente members also have higher survival rates for major cancers compared to national averages reported by SEER, the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program.

When completed in late 2027, the Kaiser Permanente Cancer Center at Moanalua will bring essential cancer care services together in one location, making treatment more convenient for patients and supportive for families. Approximately 1,400 members are diagnosed with cancer each year. This investment is a testament to Kaiser Permanente of Hawaii's commitment to providing compassionate, world-class cancer care and supporting the health of communities for years to come.

Construction is scheduled to begin in January, with an opening planned for late 2027.