Published online:
11 June 2013

Summary
This report is an evaluation of a demonstration site coordinated by Health Workforce New Zealand. A primary care practice assistant is a new type of health care worker for general practices, responsible for clinical and administrative tasks.
This evaluation report finds the role can:
- free practice nurses for patient education and nurse-led clinics
- free GPs to see more patients an hour and pursue medical interests including minor surgery, skin clinics or ophthalmology
- shorten waiting times for patients.