Kaiser Permanente Hawaii said it is in partnership talks with Maui Memorial Medical Center and Kula Hospital in an effort to help the struggling public hospitals stay afloat.

Lawmakers shelved legislation earlier this year that would’ve allowed the Maui and Kula hospitals — part of the Hawaii Health Systems Corp. — to partner or be purchased by a private entity. 

If an agreement is reached and legislation allowing a partnership is passed, Kaiser said it is committed to keeping the hospitals open for the entire Maui community, both Kaiser and non-Kaiser members.

Maui Memorial also is in similar discussions with Hawaii Pacific Health — operator of the Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children, Pali Momi Medical Center and Straub Clinic & Hospital on Oahu.