Primary Times, Summer 2022-23

Workforce, workforce, workforce: The biggest issue in aged care

In October 2022, the inaugural Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA)1 Conference was held in Adelaide. Approximately 1800 delegates, including APNA representatives, were in attendance. And the topic on everybody’s lips – workforce.

Primary health care nurses are not just a GP value-add

Some members of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have suggested that MBS item numbers should be changed to allow nurses in general practice to administer vaccines without a GP being present. This proposal is well intentioned; however, it does not go anywhere near far enough.

HIV - Living longer and the PHC nurse’s role in care

New, highly effective forms of treatment have allowed people living with HIV (PLHIV) to live longer lives. This means that the care for those living longer with HIV is changing. As a primary health care (PHC) nurse, what can you do to ensure the best care for PLHIV?

Kickstart closure of hard-to-heal wounds

Chronic wounds, such as venous leg ulcers (VLUs) and diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), can require months of treatment. Now, a new treatment option is available for primary care teams that is single-use, cost-effective and portable, allowing for early intervention and faster closure of these types of wounds.

Victoria’s information sharing reforms: What do PHC nurses need to know?

Legislative changes in Victoria have introduced information sharing reforms. The new schemes aim to better protect the wellbeing and safety of children and families, and make it easier and faster for health-care professionals to collaborate across organisations and sectors.