Most sore throats clear on their own, but some are strep, and telling the difference matters.

What causes a sore throat

Most sore throats are caused by viruses and get better on their own, while some are strep, a bacterial infection treated with antibiotics.

How we help

With our partner, Ohana Care Clinic, we test when it counts so true strep is treated and you are not given antibiotics you do not need.

Read our in-depth guide to sore throat and strep at Ohana Care Clinic →

Insurance and how we see you

We accept Medicare and Medicaid, including Hawaiʻi’s QUEST Integration plans — AlohaCare, the Hawaiʻi Medical Service Association (HMSA), ʻOhana Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan — along with most commercial insurance plans. Your care begins with a visit to our Honolulu office so we can get to know you and complete any needed exams, and after that first in-office visit, much of your ongoing care can continue conveniently by telehealth.

Culturally grounded care

We care for the whole person, in the spirit of lōkahi — balance and harmony among the connected parts of life: the body, the mind and emotions, the spirit, the ʻohana (family), and our relationship with the ʻāina (land) and community. To mālama (care for and protect) your health and to live pono (in balance), we listen to your whole story, welcome your ʻohana, and honor the values and traditions that ground you. Offering kōkua (help given freely, with aloha) in a way that respects who you are is at the heart of how we practice.

Common questions

Do all sore throats need antibiotics?

No. Most are viral and do not respond to antibiotics. Antibiotics are recommended only when a test confirms strep.

Where is this care provided?

At our Honolulu office. Care begins with an in-office visit so we can get to know you, and much of your ongoing care can then continue by telehealth.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept Medicare and Medicaid, including the Hawaii QUEST Integration plans (AlohaCare, HMSA, Ohana Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan), along with most commercial insurance.

Where can I learn more about sore throat and strep?

You can read our in-depth guide to sore throat and strep at our partner, Ohana Care Clinic.

This page is general health education from OhanaPsych. It is not a substitute for a personal evaluation by a qualified clinician who knows your situation, and reading it does not create a provider–patient relationship. In an emergency, call 911.

George Mackel, MSN, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP — President & Owner