PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE USE February 28, 2014
NZRGPN pays tribute to rural GP – New Zealander of the Year
New Zealander of the Year – Far North rural GP Lance O’Sullivan – is an “inspiration to us all”, says New Zealand Rural
General Practice Network chairman Dr Jo Scott-Jones.
Dr O’Sullivan was named Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year for his efforts to wipe out poverty-related illnesses in some
of the country's poorest communities. The award was presented by Prime Minister John Key at a recent ceremony in
Auckland.
“Lance is a well-respected, influential rural GP whose dedication to his community and focus on improvement of health
status for the poorest and most deserving of communities is only matched by his concern and care of each individual
patient under his care,” says Dr Scott-Jones.
“This award is the latest in a growing list for Lance who last year was named Maori of the Year and also received Public
Health and Sir Peter Blake Trust leadership awards.
“In late 2012, Lance and wife Tracy set up low cost health clinic Te Kohanga Whakaora (The Nest of Wellness) at Kaitaia
Hospital to make basic healthcare more accessible for people in the Far North.
“He has also been instrumental in establishing programmes aimed at improving child health, including the Manawa Ora
Korokoro Ora (Moko) programme that aims to give medical care to up to 2000 children, and the Kainga Ora (Well Home)
initiative that fixes run-down homes, advancing the concept wellness begins in warm homes.
“Lance is an inspiration to all of us, an example of how medical practice can enhance a life well lived, and how we all
can enhance the lives of others,” says Dr Scott-Jones.
ENDS