The new distinction means ambulance officers Kirsty Mann, of Queenstown, and Jo Nimmo and Nobu Nakashima, both of Wanaka, are now able to treat patients suffering cardiac chest pains, asthma and diabetic incidents to a higher degree, and administer a higher level of pain relief.
Central Otago district operations manager Pete Grayland said the diploma was a whole new pathway for ambulance officers and was more recognisable within the health sector.
The officers spent more than 12 months studying in their own time, training on the road and applying theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.
"As a result of their graduation, they are now more qualified to deal with a greater range of medical emergencies, ultimately benefiting their patients and our community," Mr Grayland said.
The graduations came ahead of St John's annual Flash A Light Appeal, which runs from June 21 to 28.
An envelope appeal will be sent around Wakatipu residences. Staff from financial partner ASB Bank will be out in the skifields with collection buckets during that week.
