Mobile Surgical Unit reaches 2,000 patients in Hāwera
Mobile Surgical has now delivered care to more than 2,000 patients in Hāwera, marking a significant milestone for healthcare access in the region.
Mobile Health Group has a long history of delivering healthcare services across Aotearoa New Zealand, with a strong focus on equity, innovation, and improving access for underserved rural and regional communities. The fully self-contained mobile surgical unit has been visiting Taranaki since 2002, bringing specialist care closer to home and reducing the need for patients and their whānau to travel outside the region.
This year’s service delivery in Hāwera reflects the diverse communities it supports, with 45% of patients identifying as Māori and 45% as European. Improving access and health outcomes for Māori is a key priority, and delivering care closer to home plays an important role in reducing barriers to timely treatment.
The mobile surgical unit provides a range of minor surgical procedures, with a strong focus on paediatric dental care, which accounts for 83% of all surgeries delivered, alongside endoscopy services – two areas where timely access is critical for early diagnosis and intervention.
Mobile Health Group Chief Executive Mark Eager says: “While paediatric dental care makes up a large portion of the work we’re doing, the ability to also provide procedures like endoscopy and other minor surgeries means we can respond to a range of local healthcare needs in one place.”
Endoscopy procedures are essential for diagnosing and monitoring gastrointestinal conditions, while paediatric dental services support early intervention and improved lifelong oral health outcomes for tamariki.
“Mobile Surgical is much more than a mobile operating theatre; it’s a highly coordinated service built on strong relationships, flexibility, and a shared commitment to patient care. Its real strength lies in how it supports existing local services, enhancing what’s already there rather than replacing it, and ensuring patients can stay connected to their own hospitals and communities,” says Mark.
Mark adds that the milestone highlights the importance of flexible, community-based healthcare delivery.
“Reaching 2,000 patients in Hāwera represents more than just a number – it reflects thousands of appointments that didn’t require long travel, time away from home, or extended waits. That makes a meaningful difference for people and their whānau. Providing healthcare closer to home for those who might otherwise struggle to access it is at the heart of everything we do.”
Media Enquiries:
Mark Eager, Chief Executive, Mobile Health Group