Special Olympics Hawaii Athletes Receive Free Physical Exams During Annual MedFest Event 

In February, Kaiser Permanente hosted their 12th Annual Medfest for Special Olympics Hawaii athletes. Over 40 athletes across Oahu received free screenings at Kaiser Permanente Mapunapuna for vision, height, weight, blood pressure, and cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health. The exams were performed by Kaiser Permanente doctors, nurses, and medical staff.

In addition, Special Olympics Hawaii would like to give a special mahalo to Dr. George Talbot, MD, Dr. Megha Chandoke, MD and Diana Jill, RN, MSN who helped their Maui athletes with checkups at the Maui Medfest event at Laakea Village. With seven athletes interested in participating in Special Olympics Maui competition this season, Kaiser Permanente provided physical exams and screenings for Maui athletes.

MedFest is an annual event that provides comprehensive physical screenings to athletes of all ages competing in Special Olympics Hawaii. Physical exams are needed to ensure it is safe for athletes to participate in training and competitions each year. 

Kaiser Permanente was also recognized with two awards. Dr. Benjamin Chun, a Kaiser Permanente physician, received the Special Olympics Hawaii Above and Beyond award — an award for volunteers that have routinely demonstrated a commitment and desire to helping athletes and the greater Special Olympics Hawaii ohana. Kaiser Permanente was also recognized with Special Olympics Hawaii’s Organization of the Year award for being a long-time partner with the organization and their dedication to hosting MedFest events year-after-year, as well as their support, holding vaccine drives for Special Olympics Hawaii.