Nine University of Hawaiʻi Maui College Molokaʻi-based students earned certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA) certifications, marking a significant milestone in local healthcare workforce development. This achievement was made possible through free training provided by Good Jobs Hawaiʻi, a statewide partnership of University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges, employers and organizations committed to creating quality job opportunities for Hawaiʻi residents.
Good Jobs Hawaiʻi supported participants by covering tuition, fees, books, online classes and exam fees. Onsite training was made possible through partnerships with Nā Puʻuwai (the Native Hawaiian Health Care System that serves the islands of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi) and Molokai General Hospital, the only hospital on the Island of Molokaʻi.
Medical assistants play a vital role in healthcare—supporting physicians by preparing exam rooms, administering vaccines, collecting lab samples and more. The students also trained in EKG, phlebotomy and injections. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assisting is among the fastest growing professions, reflecting a national increase in healthcare needs.
Clinical training
The cohort included four students who are employees of Nā Puʻuwai—Piikea Hanaoka, Misty Kahale, Tanya Kamakeaiana and Kapua Kehano—and five students who are employees of Molokai General Hospital—John Allan Arista, Alisha Gramberg, Cindy Ledesma, Teri-Lee Phifer and Mililani Rawlins.
Participants engaged in weekly online lectures led by a UH Maui College professor while completing in-person clinical training at their job sites. This dual approach provided comprehensive education tailored to address the critical need for certified medical assistants in primary care facilities on Molokaʻi.
“This partnership has significantly enhanced the quality of care at our rural health clinic,” said MGH Director of Outpatient & Business Services Punahele Alcon. “Education investments like this improve safety, efficiency and professionalism, while strengthening our community’s healthcare capacity.”