Northern Ontario experiences disproportionately high mental health needs; however, accessing timely mental health care in remote communities continues to present significant geographic, operational, clinical, and logistical challenges. As Ontario’s provider of air ambulance and critical care transport services, Ornge launched the specialized Mental Health Team (MHT) initiative to improve the transportation of patients experiencing mental health emergencies to the appropriate care in a timely and equitable manner. This case study examines the origins and evolution of the MHT initiative, how it operates within the broader mental health system, and the ways it has adapted to address the complexities of delivering emergency mental health transport across Northern Ontario. In partnership with Ornge, the case study explores the operational realities of the MHT model and identifies insights and lessons for strengthening the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of emergency mental health transportation in rural and remote communities.
