News
New Doctor Brings Dedication and Compassion to Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics
Posted 1/21/25 (Tue)
Photo: Dr. Merhej Hannun, MD
The residents of Mobridge and its surrounding communities have a new ally in their healthcare journey. Dr. Merhej Hannun is the newest board-certified family medicine physician to join the team at Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, life experiences, and a vibrant personality that’s already winning over patients and staff alike.
Born in Michigan, Dr. Hannun grew up on a hillside overlooking the sea and the beautiful city of Beirut, Lebanon. He lived with his grandparents growing up and was surrounded by a loving family that provided the nurturing environment he needed to thrive. As a child, he loved getting together with his extended family every weekend.
When asked what he thinks makes a great doctor, Dr. Hannun shared the ability to listen, compassion, critical thinking, and dedication as strong factors. “I knew I was going to be a doctor when I was 8,” he shared in an interview recently, “I grew up seeing my father always busy caring for his OB/GYN patients. I am lucky to have had such a role model. I believe that to be a doctor is a calling and a privilege, and it allows you to really get to know people at their best and at their worst.”
Dr. Hannun studied at the Lebanese American University in Byblos, Lebanon. He attended medical school in Cyprus and Chicago. He also did some research in Colorado and then worked for a year just north of London. He completed his residency at Reading Hospital in Pennsylvania. He was drawn to South Dakota’s calm, serene and open landscapes as well as the openness and kindness of the management and the care team.
Dr. Hannun’s areas of expertise include preventive care, family medicine and obstetrics. He believes in taking a holistic approach to health. “Each individual is unique and should be approached as such. I set no expectations when meeting someone new but allow my patients to set the pace while working together to come up with realistic plans to optimize health and longevity.”
Since his arrival, Dr. Hannun has been busy getting to know hospital staff and community members. He really appreciates being able to get to know people on a personal level and has already begun seeing patients. When he’s not at work, he likes to spend his time visiting with friends and going out to explore new places. He enjoys being on the water and is passionate about music, from country to EDM, and especially oriental mixes.
Dr. Hannun’s appointment comes at a time when access to healthcare in rural areas is more critical than ever. With his holistic approach to patient care and his commitment to addressing the unique needs of the community, he is poised to make a meaningful difference.
"The staff at Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics are thrilled to welcome Dr. Hannun to the team,” shared John J. Ayoub, the hospital’s CEO. “His expertise in family medicine and his fresh perspectives and enthusiasm for rural healthcare are energizing for everyone. On top of being an excellent clinician, he has an engaging and delightful personality and is a wonderful human being. We’re excited to see the positive changes he’ll bring to our hospital and the community.”
Jodi Madison, RN, Clinic Operations Director, agrees. “Dr. Hannun has an exceptional bedside manner and a genuine interest in getting to know his patients as individuals. I have no doubt he’ll quickly become a trusted and beloved physician in our community.”
Residents can learn more about scheduling an appointment with Dr. Hannun by calling 605-845-3692 or clicking here.