13276 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health

13276 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health: What initiatives, if any, has the minister taken to shorten the time for people waiting (for psychiatry services) in prison intervention and support units?

Hon Matt Doocey: I am advised that Health New Zealand is working with the Department of Corrections to streamline information sharing; establish a joined up approach, and build a collective understanding of those in prison intervention and support units, as well as on wait lists to FMHS inpatient units, and their needs. These actions will continue to improve our understanding of wait times for people waiting for psychiatry services and help us act accordingly at an operational level. Improving timely access to mental health services, including access to Health NZ forensic specialist mental health services in prisons and Health NZ forensic inpatient units, is one of my priorities.