Latest / Wellington News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!
Mental Health Calls Strain Ambulance Crews | Wellington News
Wellington Free Ambulance is overwhelmed by a surge in mental health emergencies, with calls lasting up to 56 minutes—far longer than the norm—and eating into nearly eight days of crew time monthly. Frontline staff are stretched thin as ambulances aren’t always the right fit for these situations. Health officials are now redirecting calls to trained paramedic advisors and early mental health response lines, aiming to free up ambulance resources. The push is on to train more specialists in mental health care while police reduce their involvement in welfare checks. This reflects a broader…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.