South Kona residents will have improved access to health services through a new mobile medical van, state Rep. Robert Herkes announced Wednesday.

The 32½-foot van will initially focus on services to school-age children, offering vaccinations, immunizations, and school physicals, said Herkes (D, Volcano-Kainaliu). Eventually, the van will provide urgent care services, health education and disaster relief for the larger community.

Kona Community Hospital will own and operate the van, which is also equipped with wireless tele-health capabilities. The Ka’u Rural Health Community Association will also help people receive online care at its resource center in Pahala.

There will be a blessing ceremony Saturday for the van, named Kaa Hoola, at Kona Community Hospital.