40 years and counting for Dr. David O’Hagan in Ste. Rose

Residents of the community of Ste. Rose du Lac and surrounding area gathered on October 18 to recognize and congratulate Dr. David O’ Hagan for reaching a career milestone. The event, attended by over 250 people and organized by both past and present Ste. Rose Health Centre staff, celebrated Dr. O’Hagan’s 40 years of dedicated and committed service to patients, residents, clients and medical students within Ste. Rose and the surrounding area.

During the event a plaque was unveiled, and the Emergency Department wing of the Ste. Rose Hospital was dedicated to Dr. O’Hagan for his services to the community.

Dr. O’Hagan came to Canada from South Africa in 1985. He first did locums in Saskatchewan in the communities of Redvers and Kipling. He fell in love with Canada and eventually the community of Ste. Rose, although he admits originally, he didn’t plan to stay long. However, universal forces intervened.

“I came here in 1985 planning to stay one year,” Dr. O’ Hagan stated.

“I met my wife in Ste. Rose, was married here and we are still here! I have received tremendous and ongoing support from my family, patients and the community.”

Michele Quennelle, Executive Director of Ste. Rose Health Centre, says Dr. O’Hagan’s impact extends far beyond the medical clinic and hospital walls.

“As a family physician, he has cared for generations of families—delivering babies, treating the sick, and guiding patients with both medical expertise and genuine humanity. Some folks have had the pleasure of Dr. O’Hagan serving their breakfast and have him sit next to them at the bedside for a morning visit, which is a regular occurrence at the hospital,” Quennelle said.

His legacy of work at Ste. Rose General Hospital, the East Parkland Medical Clinic, Dr. Gendreau Personal Care Home and service to nearby First Nation and Metis communities over the years has left a lasting mark.

Dr. O’Hagan’s mentorship has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many aspiring physicians. His involvement with the Parkland Family Medicine Unit is well-regarded.  As assistant and then Unit Director of the Parkland Family Medicine Program for 15 tears, he helped many launch their own career paths through the program which, at the time, was one of the first rural programs of its kind in Canada. 

Dr. O’ Hagan was the first recipient from the Parkland Family Medicine Program to be recognized for contributions as the Family Physician of the Year for Manitoba, a feat accomplished in 2001.

The Physician Assistant program is also near and dear to his heart. From its inception, Dr. O’Hagan guided many military and non-military physician assistants and shared his knowledge and mentorship freely.

Prairie Mountain Health CEO Treena Slate congratulated Dr. O’Hagan for his remarkable accomplishments.

“Your long-term commitment to the community is truly exceptional. There aren’t too many doctors who remain dedicated and committed to one community or area anymore.  There is no question that you have left a far-reaching impression on individuals, families, community representatives, medical professionals, and colleagues during your 40 years. We wish you and your family all the best in future endeavours!”