Mental health service options shrink on Big Isle

June 01--HILO -- Administrators are closing one wing of the Hilo Medical Center's behavior health facility, leaving even fewer options for mental health services.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald reports that the East Hawaii Region of the state's public health care network is wrestling with a $7 million budget shortfall and announced last week that it will lay off 87 employees and cut services at some hospitals, including HMC.

Hawaii Health Systems Corp. East Hawaii Region Interim CEO Dan Brinkman said in a letter Wednesday that the eight-bed wing is rarely used and the system can no longer afford the extra beds.

University of Hawaii at Hilo psychopharmacology expert Judi Steinman says the island already has fewer psychiatrists than it needs and that cutting mental health services could hurt the most vulnerable residents.

Maui veterans cemetery due for expansion

WAILUKU, Maui --A Hawaii National Guard official said last week the Maui Veterans Cemetery will undergo a $6 million expansion.

"Upon completion, the appearance of Maui Veterans Cemetery will achieve shrine (status) ... and will demonstrate that the nation appreciates their selfless service," said Col. Kenneth Hara, deputy adjutant general of the Hawaii National Guard, the Maui News reported.

Hara said it is estimated that the cemetery, established in 1951, will run out of room in less than a year.

But the purchase of 10 additional acres and the funding secured by agencies working together will provide an additional 500 crypts and 400 burial spaces, as well as 50 additional paved parking spaces and 100 unpaved parking spaces, he said.

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