ParagonCare steps in as new distribution partner for Versius robotics amid senior leadership transition

ParagonCare has been appointed the exclusive channel partner for UK-based medtech company CMR Surgical in Australia and New Zealand, effective 14 July 2025.

The move signals a new chapter for the Versius surgical system in the region. While LifeHealthcare secured Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval for the system in 2021 and first introduced the robotic technology at the CR24 Colorectal Spring Meeting in Melbourne, the distribution baton has now been passed to ParagonCare.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank LifeHealthcare for their instrumental role in introducing and establishing Versius in the region. Their efforts have laid a strong foundation for its ongoing success,” ParagonCare said in a statement.

To ensure a smooth transition, ParagonCare will also absorb the LifeHealthcare robotics team, a decision designed to safeguard continuity in expertise, service, and client relationships.

The shift in distribution comes as ParagonCare undergoes its own internal transformation. Carmen Riley assumed the role of CEO on 1 July 2025, bringing nearly two decades of leadership experience across ParagonCare and Clifford Hallam Healthcare (CH2). She served as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director following the ParagonCare–CH2 merger. Former CEO and Managing Director, David Collins, will remain in the Managing Director role through to 30 June 2026, at which point Riley is expected to take on the full Managing Director responsibilities at ParagonCare.

Meanwhile, CMR Surgical is reportedly exploring a potential sale valued at around $4 billion – a move that would position the company more aggressively in the competitive robotic-assisted surgery space.

Launched commercially in 2019, Versius has gained recognition for its unique design in minimal access surgery. Unlike traditional robotic systems, Versius is modular and portable, allowing flexibility across diverse surgical environments – from large-scale hospitals to outpatient clinics.

Its open console offers ergonomic versatility, letting surgeons operate seated or standing while staying visually and verbally connected with the operating team. The platform’s V-Wrist technology, which provides 360-degree articulation that mimics the human wrist, enhances surgical precision and reduces fatigue.

To date, more than 35,000 procedures have been performed globally using the Versius system, spanning urology, general surgery, gynaecology, and thoracic specialties.

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