Malama Pono
Business,  Hawaii Island 2011 Mar–Apr

Malama Pono Health Care

Malama PonoClaudia Christman has a deep-seated desire to help people live healthy lives. She began her medical career as a nurse practitioner who helped people manage chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.

“Seeking new learning,” Dr. Christman says, “I went on to become a board-certified physician specializing in emergency medicine, which allowed me to help people in a very challenging acute-care environment. I derived much satisfaction from my work at major trauma centers and most recently, Kona Community Hospital. But after 12 years working as an ER doctor, I realized that I missed the opportunity to provide the kind of healing care that can take place out of a hospital setting. I opened Malama Pono Health Care to provide the kind of medical care I would want to receive.

Dr. Christman’s patients encompass anyone who has non-life threatening health issues or concerns, she says. “My primary areas of emphasis include general health matters, urgent care, and hormone balancing for men and women. “Both as a physician and a nurse practitioner, I have always prioritized the personal aspect of providing medical care. I take the time to listen to the patient and tailor my medical services to the patient’s needs.”

A seven-year resident of Hawai‘i Island, Dr. Christman finds she has to balance her personal life with her business. “The biggest challenge is making time personally for the good health habits that I support with my patients. I feel strongly about incorporating healthy choices into one’s life.” She is an avid scuba diver on this island and serves as a referral physician for Divers Alert Network (DAN).

Malama Pono Health Care has a convenient location at Pottery Terrace, adjacent to Jackie Rey’s, with easy parking.

“I began my private medical practice in Kailua-Kona because I wanted to combine my medical skills and training with my love of the Aloha spirit. My journey has definitely shaped who I am,” says Dr. Christman.

Malama Pono Health Care is located at 75-5995 Kuakini Highway (Pottery Terrace), Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

808.345.5054, Email