Future bright for ENT service

When you think of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery in Tairāwhiti, there’s one name that comes to mind; Dr Julian Avisenis.
For almost thirty years Julian has been the region’s leading and often only ENT surgeon, helping thousands of local people live their best lives.
Although nearing retirement, he says he’s ‘gained some energy back again’ after being joined by not one but two young surgeons who have reduced his workload.
Until recently, Dr Francisco MacArthur, (or ‘Cisco’ as he preferred to be called) was working alongside Julian. Cisco is now completing his year-long fellowship at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and while he’s in Australia, Julian has been joined by Dr Oliver Rose.
“As a surgeon, working with someone with so much experience, who works to such a high standard, is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” said Oliver. “What Julian has done for the Tairāwhiti community is nothing short of amazing and I count myself lucky to be working alongside him.”
Julian said that as the population has grown, so has the demand and advances in ENT technology, which have made it a fast-growing area of surgery.
“Here at Te Whatu Ora Tairāwhiti we have a great team of nurses, junior doctors and administrators and we’re working hard to meet the ever-growing demand.
“If you’re waiting for surgery with us, thank you for your patience and we look forward to seeing you soon. With two ENT surgeons working together, the future is looking bright for the service here.
“Cisco completes his fellowship next year and who knows, if he returns, maybe one day I can pass over the service to these two,” added Julian.

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