Evaluation of a Gerontology Nurse Specialist in Primary Care

Summary

This report is an evaluation of a demonstration site coordinated by Health Workforce New Zealand. A gerontology nurse specialist in primary care identifies at-risk older adults in a GP practice or practices, and coordinates their care.

The evaluation finds the role can:

• systematically screen GP patient lists for at-risk older people
• provide comprehensive and specialist care
• save time for GPs and practice nurses
• improve liaison between health professionals, older people and their families
• potentially reduce emergency department visits and hospital admissions.