A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a Registered Nurse with the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat people of all ages with a variety of acute or chronic health conditions. NPs have completed additional university study at Master’s degree level and are the most senior clinical nurses in our health care system. The title “Nurse Practitioner” can only be used by a person who has been endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
National standards for practice ensure that Nurse Practitioners are capable of providing high quality, patient centred care. They are also capable in clinical research, education and leadership as applied to clinical care and health service development.
Did you know that Nurse practitioners
- Provide health care in all states and territories in Australia
- Can provide patient rebates through Medicare
- Provide prescriptions and access to PBS medicines
- Can refer patients to hospitals and specialists
- Can order x-rays and diagnostic tests
- Are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Nurse Practitioners work as key members of the healthcare team and collaborate with other nurses and healthcare professionals including your GP, medical and surgical specialists, physiotherapists, dietitians, occupational therapists, social workers, and many others.
