About us

"I decided to join Wellington Free Ambulance while I was a student studying my paramedicine degree at Whitireia. It was the end of first year when we were introduced to the idea of joining Patient Transfer Services (PTS) as students working part time. I was working in healthcare but was craving change, so it came at a great time."

It’s now been nearly three years since Monique joined PTS as a patient transfer officer (PTO). During that time, she’s graduated with her paramedic degree and has really enjoyed the experience.

"I’m so glad I took the chance. I knew that getting to work for Wellington Free Ambulance as a student and leading into my future as a paramedic would be good to get a foot in the door, get familiar with everything and everyone. The transition to frontline should hopefully be easier."

While the opportunity to join PTS came at the right time, Monique has always been drawn to caring for others and working in healthcare.

"My nana was a nurse, and I’ve always wanted to work in the health sector."

No two days are the same

Ask Monique what a typical day looks like, and she’ll tell you there isn’t one.

"Every day is different, and that’s what I love. I can’t stand repetitiveness. I thrive in a changing environment, and you never know what you’re going to get up to."

One shift might involve a scenic coastal drive taking patients home from hospital. The next could include transfers between the region’s three hospitals, hospice transfers, dialysis appointments, receiving patients from medical flights, assisting frontline crews with lift assists or, occasionally, responding to cardiac arrests.

"It’s the variety that keeps the job interesting."

Making a difference

Among the many patients Monique has cared for, one recent transfer has stayed with her.

"We were transferring a patient whose life had completely changed after a vehicle crash. They were no longer able to walk or talk and moving from hospital into long-term care was a huge milestone for them and their family."

"Being part of that journey felt really special, especially when the family told us how much it meant to them."

"It’s moments like that that remind you you’re doing the right thing. The way you treat people and the work we do is noticed and appreciated."

A new perspective

Working in PTS has also changed the way Monique sees the world.

"It’s made me think differently about the health system, the needs of people and all the moving parts behind the scenes."

"It’s also made me much more patient, empathetic and understanding. Life is really short, and you can’t take anything for granted. You never know when someone’s life can change in an instant."

"That might sound a bit dark, but I think it’s an important reminder to be kind to everyone, especially healthcare workers."

The people make the job

Alongside the variety, it’s the conversations with patients that Monique enjoys most.

"I love talking to people and hearing their life stories. There are some incredible characters out there."

"That’s a big part of why I keep doing this job. It’s enjoyable, every day is different and I genuinely feel like I’m making a difference in people’s lives."

If she had to describe being a PTO in three words, they’d be: rewarding, challenging and varied.

The realities behind the role

Like any healthcare role, there are challenging days.

"It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some days nothing goes smoothly, or you don’t get treated well. When that happens, I remind myself this might be the hardest period in someone’s life, and it’s not personal."

Monique also believes many people don’t realise just how much happens behind the scenes.

"I think people would be surprised by everything involved in hospital and transfer services. One thing that always impresses me is the amount of equipment needed to safely transport babies to and from NICU, and how it all fits onto a stretcher while keeping them stable during the journey."

Wearing the uniform with pride

Putting on the Wellington Free Ambulance uniform is something Monique doesn’t take for granted.

"I feel proud. People see the uniform and think about the things you must do and see."

"It can be a little nerve-wracking too because people hold you to a high standard and expect you to know everything. But I’ve worked hard to be where I am, so wearing the uniform makes me proud."