Feilding GP retires after 30 years

Dr Quentin MacMurray, a General Practitioner at Feilding Health Care, is well known and respected for his gentle, considerate and unassuming manner.  His focus and attention to his patients over the many years, which he has dedicated to General Practice, has meant that he is held in high regard, both by his colleagues and patients.

Dr MacMurray along with his wife Fiona are now preparing to leave the Manawatu and head back to the South Island. “We have raised our three children in the area and we have enjoyed our time being part of the Feilding and rural districts communities,” says Dr MacMurray.

“We are looking forward to retiring in the Nelson area.”

Dr MacMurray has always been a keen hockey player. Over the years, as well as playing the game, he has coached teams. It is only this year that he has decided to stop playing in Manawatu lower grade club hockey.  “I hope to go on playing in masters tournaments.”

His passion for outdoor activities will continue with tramping, skiing and anything that gets him out into the great outdoors.

“My patients will often hear me say, if we don’t move, we fail. Leading an active life enhances wellbeing.

Dr MacMurray was born in Dunedin and studied medicine at Otago University and Canterbury Universities. His medical career began with working at Palmerston North hospital as a house surgeon and later as a Radiation Oncology registrar. He spent some time in both Hamilton and Wellington in this role. “When I made the decision to become a General Practitioner, I was fortunate to have Dr David Broad, also one the General Practitioners at FHC as my tutor. David sets a high clinical standard and is an excellent tutor”, says Dr MacMurray.

After completing his GP training, Dr MacMurray had his own practice in Feilding situated Kimbolton Road for 13 years. In 2003 Dr MacMurray joined Dr Broad’s practice until 2016.

Feilding Health Centre has now been open for two years.  This integrated primary health care for Feilding and districts offers GP services, pharmacy, radiology and DHB Services for the community.

“It is a changed world, and the services we are able to offer is a ‘win win’ situation for patients and the health providers. For me, one of the key factors with the new facility has been the ability that it attracts young Doctors, the cohesiveness and good-working relationships has meant a health centre that takes our community into the future for good health outcomes.” The clinical structure and business model of Feilding Health Care has created an environment that is patient centred, giving continuity of care for patients with their own GP and designated long term condition nurses.

Dr MacMurray will be missed by many people in the community, as a friend, colleague and in his role as Doctor.  He has journeyed with his patients as they were confronted with situations that affect not only themselves but also their families.

One of his patients aptly said, “Dr MacMurray has been such a strength in times of stress situations and sadness.  His consideration for myself and my family was certainly appreciated.”

Dr Bruce Stewart, shareholder and director at FHC said, “Quentin, the quiet achiever of the Feilding Doctors, thoughtful sincere and considered. Always working in his patient’s best interests. An intelligent and knowledgeable doctor!

Dr David Broad, who has worked with Quentin for many years, says of Quentin, “He has been a fantastic colleague and friend for 30 years.  We have had daily discussions over this time.  I will surely miss his support and humour.”