The 2007 Hawai'i Island Healthcare Conference sponsored by the county will be held Monday at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott to discuss problems with the Big Island healthcare system, and to discuss possible solutions.

The conference is free, and the public is invited. It begins at 8:30 a.m. in the Naupaka Ballroom, and the agenda includes presentations on the medical provider shortage, the medical facility shortage and the long-term care shortage.

Dr. Chiyome Fukino, director of the state Department of Health, will be the keynote speaker. State Rep. Josh Green, a physician and chairman of the House Health Committee, will be the luncheon speaker.

By the end of the conference, post-conference work groups will be formed to carry on the proposed courses of action.

Anyone interested in attending can contact Rene Dela Cruz at 961-8508 or by e-mail at rdelacruz@co.hawaii.hi.us.