On the Couch

with Dr Jane Strang Drawing upon 18 years of surgical experience in the Nelson and Tasman regions, Tasman Day Surgery opened its doors to the public on March 7. We talk to director, Dr Jane Strang about how things are progressing with the new clinic and her team of talented health care professionals.

The opening of the day stay hospital has been on the cards since 2019, how have you found things so far?

Everything has been running as we hoped it would, we were very well prepared! It has taken a team of us getting together, involved every step of the way, with many meetings to ensure everything aligned. We are excited to offer a safe, caring and welcoming space for people to come to. Lynda Wakefield, our general manager has been instrumental in it all coming together.

How easy is it for people to access Tasman Day Stay and the services that your team have available?

We always prefer people have a referral from their general practitioner as it is always important to keep your GP informed of your health. But we do welcome people to pop in and have a chat with one of our well-resourced administration or nursing team, they are always happy to assist in whatever way they can.

Having any surgical procedure done can be a daunting time for anyone, how do you put someone at ease?

Being able to provide a comfortable and welcoming place for a procedure is paramount to reassurance – it doesn’t feel like a hospital. We provide an environment that is well staffed and well- resourced giving us the ability to provide that extra little bit of care and attention that is required. The four endoscopists at TDS work collaboratively to ensure quick access to the service and the nursing and administration staff assist in helping patients get well prepared for the day of procedure. Many patients will have a procedure done and be comfortably home within four hours.

Your passion for your work shines through, what is it that drives your devotion to the field?

I just love my work! I have been a consultant at NMDHB for 14 years, doing private general surgery and endoscopy for 13 years. I enjoy the theory and science behind surgical problems, the technical aspect of my work, and the people that we are helping. It can be a scary time for people, and you end up forming long-term relationships with many of them. It is wonderful to be able to stay involved and support people through their tough times. I also love the teaching element of my work, it really is satisfying, and having to keep up to date with ever changing technologies and techniques is extremely important.

What do you look forward to in the future with Tasman Day Stay?

We look forward to welcoming new endoscopists and surgeons on board in the next few months and have a few exciting plans in the pipeline for further development of the services we provide.