Pacific Edge

CEO Darlene Nakayama Recognized as one of Hawaii’s Healthcare Leaders

Darlene Nakayama, CEO of Palolo Chinese Home was recently recognized by Pacific Edge magazine as one of Hawaii’s healthcare leaders. The recognition event was held at Baku, a new restaurant in the International Market Place in Waikiki.

Darlene was also featured in the recent Health Issue of Pacific Edge. Here are excerpts from her interview. You may also view the magazine online and read the entire article on page 26 by clicking here.

On Healthcare Industry’s Move to Outcome-Based Payment Models:

“Palolo Chinese Home works very closely with other post-acute facilities such as with acute care (hospital) partners. They expect us to help with providing care for their patients who are being discharged but may need short-term rehab before returning home. We make sure that when they become our residents, they receive quality care to prevent them from being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days, so that the hospitals are not subject to penalties that can affect their revenue.”

On Trends in the Workforce that are Influencing Healthcare:

“People are postponing retirement usually because of financial need. At the same time, many are leaving the workforce prematurely to provide support for family caregivers. Many in the workplace are stretched and stressed beyond imagination.

Our senior day care program, which is open seven days a week, and our home care program, are as much for seniors as they are for working caregivers. Senior day care provides a place where a family member can drop off a loved one and know they will be cared for during the day while they are at work. Home care provides in-home services by those who serve as an extension of family. It’s a win-win for everyone.

I think employers will begin to see how these services are beneficial for their employees. The employees are able to be fully present at work without having to worry about mom or dad, rushing home to feed them lunch or dinner, or taking too much time off from work. All of this leads to more productivity and avoids premature retirements from those who have so more much to contribute.”