49785 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health

49785 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health: Does he agree with New Zealand Herald's Isaac Davidson that patients with severe mental health problems are reportedly waiting for up to 72 hours for care in the South Auckland region because of a shortage of staff; if so, what, if anything, will he do to address this?

Hon Matt Doocey: I am advised that patients triaged as needing an acute response are prioritised for priority clinical specialist assessment. I am further advised that in times of high acute demand, this may mean patients with less urgent need will have an extended wait. During this time, patients who have ongoing need will be supported by other mental health clinicians such as nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, or Allied Health staff. Health New Zealand continues to focus on recruitment to address staffing gaps across specialties.