Access to endoscopy services through regular bowel screening helps support earlier diagnosis for people living in Buller and other rural communities, where access to specialist healthcare can often be limited.
The Mobile Surgical Unit has been a familiar presence in Buller since 2002. Known as the “theatre on wheels,” it continues to deliver specialist care directly to patients who might otherwise face significant barriers to access.
During a recent visit, General Surgeon and Endoscopist Dr Sarah Rennie carried out endoscopy procedures alongside the clinical team, reinforcing the value of bringing these services closer to where people live.
Dr Rennie spoke highly of both the service and the people behind it.
“I thoroughly enjoyed spending time on the unit with the team and came away incredibly impressed by the compassion, professionalism, and patient-centered care demonstrated by everyone involved. The team shares a genuine commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve. The collegiality and sense of shared purpose amongst the staff make it a truly rewarding environment to be part of.”
Dr Rennie also emphasised the importance of delivering specialist care directly into rural communities.
“Services such as endoscopy play a vital role in improving access to high-quality healthcare for people living in rural Aotearoa. Rural communities often experience inequities in access to timely specialist and preventative care. Initiatives that bring healthcare closer to where people live and work are essential if we are to achieve more equitable health outcomes – particularly for Māori, Pacific peoples, and other underserved populations.”
The visit coincided with Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, led by Bowel Cancer New Zealand – an important national campaign highlighting a disease that remains the second-highest cause of cancer death in Aotearoa, claiming around 1,200 lives each year.
Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer New Zealand, Peter Huskinson, says awareness and early action remain key.
“One of the biggest challenges with bowel cancer is that symptoms can be easy to dismiss. The earlier bowel cancer is found, the better the chances of successful treatment. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Talk to your GP and keep pushing for answers if symptoms continue.”
Peter adds that uncertainty about symptoms often prevents people from seeking help.
“Many people aren’t sure whether their symptoms are serious enough to seek advice. That’s why we’ve developed an online symptom checker, to help people understand what to look out for and when it might be time to speak to a healthcare professional.”
Mark Eager, Chief Executive for Mobile Health Group, says the ongoing presence of the Mobile Surgical Unit in Buller reinforces exactly why the service exists.
“By delivering endoscopy and surgical care directly into rural communities, the unit removes barriers such as travel, cost, and time, ensuring patients can access timely diagnostics and treatment closer to home. Services like this play a vital role in supporting earlier diagnosis and better health outcomes.”
With strong partnerships between Mobile Health Group, Health New Zealand, local providers, and organisations such as Bowel Cancer New Zealand, the message is clear: earlier detection and better access to care can change and save lives in rural communities.
Want to know when the surgical bus will next be in your area? Visit: https://mobilehealth.co.nz/schedule/