Christchurch Urologist, Dr Stephen Mark elected to head peak body
MEDIA RELEASE | 14 April 2019
Christchurch urologist Dr Stephen Mark has been elected as the new President of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ), the peak body representing more than 700 urologists in Australia and New Zealand.
Dr Mark says he is honoured to lead the Urological Society and continue the outstanding work of outgoing president, Adjunct Professor Heathcote in advocating for urologists and their patients.
A paediatric and reconstructive urologist Dr Mark completed his urological training in 1992 and completed a fellowship in reconstructive and urodynamic urology at Duke University Medical Centre in the United States and a paediatric fellowship at Bristol Children’s Hospital in the UK.
Dr Mark is a urologist at Christchurch Hospital and a trustee of the Canterbury Urology Research Trust. He is also a Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Otago, Christchurch and former Senior Examiner for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
In 2012 Dr Mark was awarded the Urological Society's 'Christchurch Medal' for his efforts in rescuing trapped victims of the 2011 earthquake which coincided with the Society's Annual Scientific Meeting which was that year held in the Christchurch Convention Centre.
The medal was struck with metal procured from the badly damaged and condemned Grand Chancellor hotel in which many of the Australian and international delegates were staying.
Last year Dr Mark led a team of 12 New Zealand urologists who volunteered their time to travel to Dunedin for emergency weekend clinics to help clear the backlog of urology patients at the hospital.
“As President my objective is to foster patient-focused innovation in urology that improves quality and efficiency of care delivered by urology and we should continue to support the use of data to deliver these outcomes.
“The support of registries, including those already established for prostate cancer, nephrectomies and now pelvic mesh are critical to advancing our knowledge of how to deliver best outcomes for patients in terms of cure, management and safety,” said Dr Mark.
“Additionally, nurturing trainees and promoting resilience and respect is fundamental in the education of the next generation of urologists and I would encourage them to always speak up against unacceptable behaviour,” said Dr Mark. We continue to endorse programs initiated by Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and endorsed by USANZ to promote zero tolerance of harassment or bullying in the workplace.
An enthusiastic cyclist and passionate environmentalist Dr Mark is active in leading committees focused on reducing waste and resources in hospital and medical settings. In accepting the nomination for President, Dr Mark paid special tribute to his wife Jules for her unwavering support and love throughout his career and in life.
Media enquiries or to arrange an interview:
Please email Edwina Gatenby or call +61 402 130 254