With general practices facing the challenges of a GP workforce shortage, rising rates of chronic diseases, and an ageing population, many practices are employing nurses to ensure they are able to continue to deliver a high level of quality care to the community.

The benefits of having a nurse/s as part the general practice team include:

• Additional clinical support for GPs
• Improved work satisfaction for the GP/s
• Enhanced chronic disease management
• Increased range of services offered by practices
• Assistance in primary-acute sector integration

�Since we employed a nurse, we have been able decrease our workload in certain areas, while increasing our practice income through better access to PIP and EPC payments. We benefit, and our patients definitely benefit also.�

Dr Adele Stewart, GP, Woonona (Dr Stewart�s practice has since employed a second nurse)

The Illawarra Shoalhaven Medicare Local (ISML) supports the integration of nurses into the general practice setting by providing assistance with recruitment, orientation and ongoing professional development and networking opportunities.

Information for Practices

Information for General Practice Nurses

Information for nurses interested in working in general practice