A dynamic and vibrant area of the nursing profession

• Core members of the general practice team
• Providing significant benefits to primary health care services
• Central to the development of team relationships within the practice

How nurses contribute

Recognised benefits nurses can bring to general practice services include:

• improved outcomes in chronic disease
• an increase in the range of services available at the practice
• reduction in waiting times
• improved public access
• improved integration with the acute sector
• enhanced consumer satisfaction.

Dynamic nursing

• Nursing in general practice praovides an opportunity for nurses to be at the heart of the community
• Both registered and enrolled nurses are employed in general practice, playing pivotal roles in health promotion, maintenance of health and the prevention of illness
• Diverse roles varying from practice to practice

Support available

Australian Government policy has been a significant driver for the employment of more nurses in general practice and for the development of the clinical role for nurses.  It has made a significant financial commitment to practice nursing.

 

Support includes:

• incentive grants to practices to assist in the employment of a nurse
• Medicare items for the service provided by the nurse on behalf of the GP
• funding for education and training

Other benefits

• Flexible working arrangements
• Working as a valued member of a small team
• Ability to be self directed and utlisie many skills
• Opportunity to specialise in areas of interest
• Access to a range of postgraduate programs

Information brochure for nurses