NEW Norfolk now has a 24-hour dual paramedic crew following the recruitment of two new ambulance officers.

Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff said emergency ambulance responses, particularly in the New Norfolk area had been steadily increasing over the past few years.

“Which is why our government committed $26.8 million to recruit an additional 48 paramedics to both urban and regional locations across the state in the 2021-22 Tasmanian Budget,’’ Mr Rockliff said.

“The New Norfolk station had been a ‘double-branch station’ staffed by one paramedic and one volunteer ambulance officer.

“But is now serviced by paramedics 24 hours a day with the additional staff beginning service in January 2022.

“The decision to upgrade to a full 24-hour dual paramedic crew reflects the growing population of about 10,500 in the Derwent Valley and the rise in demand for services, with an average caseload of 216 per month over the 2020-21 financial year.

“The 24-hour dual paramedic crew reduces the incidence of single-officer response, providing greater safety for staff and the community.’’

Mr Rockliff said the establishment of a full paramedic crew also delivered greater support for the newly created single branch station at Ouse.

“We will continue to invest in our ambulance services and infrastructure so that Tasmanians can get the right health care in the right place at the right time,’’ he said.