Background: 

Specialist Palliative Care has traditionally focused on a medical model of care with nurses providing support for patients in the community. There is an identified shortage of Medical Specialists particularly in rural areas and this will present many challenges in the future. The role of the Nurse practitioner is not new but underutilised across most health care settings and is often poorly understood. This presentation will focus on highlighting the NP role as a solution for providing a high standard of patient care utilising a nurse led model of care. 

Aim: 

The role of the nurse practitioner is now well established more so in the most rural part of the district. The position supports GPs, nursing staff and patients in the delivery of specialist care. Feedback anecdotally has been positive with formal evaluation to occur. Staff report feeling supported and have a clear and simple escalation pathway. The GPs work collaboratively in providing patient care both in community and inpatient settings.  Most importantly patients and families are well supported in their choice of place of care.

Methods:

In 2020 the service was fragmented and differences in care delivery were apparent across the LHD. The use of redesign methodology with gap analysis and staff engagement was driven by the need for change to improve care delivery. The solution phase developed an innovative and progressive nurse led model of care as a way to provide sustainable care delivery into the future. This meant the role of the NP is now recognised and well established with a second NP position last year.

Conclusion:

The future delivery of specialist palliative care delivery is concerning. An ageing population with increased care needs will present challenges in the future. The Nurse Practitioner role is well suited to community palliative care and will provide and innovative approach to care improving patient and family experience.