On Thursday, Hawaii Speciality Pharmacy held an opening ceremony for two new ambulatory infusion centers in Wailuku and Upcountry on Maui. 

Patients with chronic conditions, including certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease or multiple sclerosis, can receive IV treatments at the new facilities or in their homes through HSP. 

“Obviously it's a very stressful time for patients and we want to put them in a place where they're comfortable and can receive care,” said Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy CEO George Kridner in an interview with Spectrum News Hawaii. 

Accessible care was an important part of HSP’s decision to open the new facilities. HSP currently operates an ambulatory infusion center on Oahu. 

“These two (infusion centers) are strategically placed on the island,” said Kridner. He added HSP hopes the infusion centers will help residents living in different parts of Maui. 

In 2021, Pharmacare Hawaii opened an ambulatory infusion center in Kahului. Patients can also receive infusions at Maui Memorial Medical Center in Wailuku and other hospitals.

However, Kridner said some patients are flying to Oahu or the mainland to seek treatment, especially after the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui fires disrupted healthcare services for residents. 

“That's kind of traumatic,” said Kridner. “You're not able to do it in your own community.”

HSP Upcountry, at 40 Kupaoa St, #B202, Makawao, is already operational and can serve five patients at a time. HSP Wailuku, at 1885 Main St, #207, Wailuku, is currently open with limited services and will eventually serve six patients at a time. Both facilities also have an option for a private room. The infusion centers are open five days a week. 

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.