Health care consumers' knowledge and opinions of the role and use of nurse practitioners in Australian primary health care

This is the first national study examining Australian health care consumers‘ knowledge and opinions of the role and use of nurse practitioners in Australian primary health care. This study was conducted between May 2010 and February 2011. The aim of this study was to examine Australian health care consumers' perceptions of nurse practitioners working in primary health care. This study comprised of: A literature review, qualitative research involving focus groups with health care consumers from a number of States and Territories, and a national online survey involving health care consumers to investigate their understanding and perceptions of the role of nurse practitioners in Australian primary health care. This study was guided by a reference group which was established to oversee the methodology and provide critical advice throughout the term of the project. The reference group comprised of representatives from nursing, general practice, primary health care and governmental organisations