Healthcare on the Big Island: What You Need to Know Before Moving to Hawaii

One of the biggest questions people ask before moving to the Big Island is:
“What about healthcare?”

When David and I moved here eight years ago, we were both pretty healthy. As we’ve gotten older, healthcare has naturally become a bigger part of our lives.

There’s a misconception that if you live on the Big Island, you have to fly to Oʻahu for everything medical. That hasn’t been our experience. We have hospitals, primary care doctors, specialists, imaging, outpatient care, physical therapy, and more right here on the island.

That said, not every specialty or procedure is available here, and access can depend on your location, insurance, medical needs, and which providers are accepting patients.

About five months ago, I had cervical spine surgery on Oʻahu. I’ll admit, the idea of flying home after spine surgery scared me. But I had the proper durable medical equipment, including my neck brace, and I contacted the airline ahead of time so they knew what I needed and could make the trip as comfortable as possible.

Then, just a week ago, I had lumbar spine surgery on Oʻahu, and thankfully that trip went smoothly too. Again, I had to advocate for myself and make sure everything was actually in order.

Even if your insurance company helps arrange your travel accommodations, it’s still wise to personally confirm everything ahead of time. Call the airline. Confirm your transportation. Check with the hotel. Make sure they understand what you may need after surgery.

In my case, I was set up at a local hotel after surgery, spent the night there, and then flew home the next day. That’s exactly why I believe in checking every detail yourself, even when someone else is helping coordinate it.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned:
Help may be available, but you still need to follow up and advocate for yourself.
Make the calls. Ask the questions. Confirm the details. Be persistent, but always be kind and respectful.

If you’re considering moving here and have chronic health conditions, medications you depend on, or specialists you see regularly, do your homework first. Check your insurance. Research available specialists. Know what the nearest hospital can handle. And establish with a primary care provider before you urgently need one.

Living on the Big Island does not mean you won’t have access to good healthcare. It may just take a little more planning, a little more follow-up, and sometimes an inter-island flight.
For us, even with two major spine surgeries this year, it has been very manageable.

If healthcare is part of your decision about moving here, research ahead of time, ask questions, and know what resources are available to you.
Island life is absolutely doable. You just want to come prepared. 🌺