1,000 patients treated in Dannevirke

Mobile Surgical is proud to celebrate a significant milestone in Dannevirke, having now provided care to 1,000 patients within the community. This achievement reflects the dedication of our clinical teams, as well as the strength of our partnership with local clinicians and Tararua Health Group (THG), whose ongoing support ensures high-quality surgical services remain accessible close to home.

Deputy Mayor, Sharon Wards joins our Dannevirke celebrations.

We were pleased to welcome Tararua District Deputy Mayor Sharon Wards to the celebration. Sharon played an instrumental role in bringing the Mobile Surgical Unit to Dannevirke Community Hospital in 2007. Over more than two decades, she has made a lasting contribution to health services in the Tararua region – first as Community Hospital Manager and later as Chief Executive of THG.

“It’s incredible that we have now reached 1,000 patients in Dannevirke. This milestone is a testament to the vision and commitment of people like Sharon, who played a key role in establishing our service here,” says Mobile Health Group Chief Executive Mark Eager.

Seven-year-old Fa’Afetai was recognised as the 1,000th patient treated in Dannevirke, marking the milestone with a special moment for the team. Also joining the celebration alongside the Mobile Surgical Unit clinical team were Mark Wills, Chief Executive and Managing Director of OmniHealth, and Ravin Abeysekera, Manager & Physician Assistant for Dannevirke Community Hospital, Barraud Street Health Centre & Acute Clinic.

7-year-old Fa’Afetai becomes our 1,000th patient in Dannevirke.

The Mobile Surgical Unit delivers a fully equipped operating theatre to 25 rural communities across Aotearoa, supporting people who live and work outside urban centres. Over the past 12 months, approximately 70% of patients treated have been children requiring urgent dental care. Mobile Surgical is working closely with local providers to address backlogs and ensure tamariki receive the care they need as quickly as possible.

“We’re grateful to the community of Dannevirke for embracing the mobile surgical unit and trusting us with their care,” says Mark Eager. “Reaching 1,000 patients is a shared achievement, and we look forward to supporting many more in the years ahead.”