Nursing: 10-year plan to address workforce issues

The federal government has commenced consultation to develop a new Nurse Practitioner 10-Year Plan with an aim to address workforce issues and enhance delivery of care.

Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt said there are more than 2250 nurse practitioners in Australia, with approximately one third working in regional, rural and remote areas. They work across the health system including in our hospitals, aged-care facilities, mental health services and primary healthcare services.

“This is the first opportunity for the community, health providers, clinicians and experts to make a contribution to this new plan, which will be delivered by the middle of next year,” Minister Hunt said.

“We want to ensure that the 10-year plan improves health outcomes, addresses workforce challenges and ensures that Australians can continue to access the support they need.”

The consultations will engage a wide range of stakeholders to better understand the issues that can impact Nurse Practitioner delivery of care, as well as innovations or new approaches.

The plan will include 1- to 3-year, 5-year and 10-year goals, and the development of the plan will occur concurrently with development of the National Nursing Strategy, due to the role nurse practitioners play in broader nursing career pathways and healthcare outcomes for patients.

The government is inviting stakeholders to inform the development of the plan through a survey available on the Department of Health’s Consultation Hub — www.consultations.health.gov.au. Alternatively, written submissions can be sent to nursepolicy@health.gov.au. Consultation will close on Monday, 20 December 2021.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Blue Planet Studio