Dr James Haddow

James graduated from Imperial College London, UK in 2003 with two degrees, a distinction in surgery and the Faculty of Medicine Prize. After qualifying, he worked for a year in Timaru Hospital before returning to the UK to enter specialist surgical training in London. During this time he also undertook a fellowship in Clinical Leadership and two years of full-time clinical research to complete a degree in perianal fistula disease. Following surgical training, James went on to gain experience in advanced colorectal surgery techniques in Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, UK and then Christchurch Hospital, NZ.

Having fallen in love with Aotearoa New Zealand, together with his wife, son and miniature schnauzer, James decided to stay permanently, taking up a position as consultant colorectal surgeon in Dunedin Hospital in 2019. He also is the Quality Improvement Clinical Lead for Southern DHB, a Senior Lecturer for the University of Otago, where he teaches medical students and runs the surgical audit unit, and provides specialist surgical services through Intus Dunedin and Mercy Hospital Dunedin.

From his training in quality improvement, James has a deep understanding of the importance of enhancing the patient experience. "The key to excellent healthcare is understanding what the patient wants and needs and then arranging the care and treatment around their priorities. This truly patient-centered care can only come from active listening, honest empathy and humility."