The Future of Nursing: Adapting to Changes in Healthcare Policies and Practices

Abstract

Background: The nursing profession is critical in enhancing primary healthcare delivery, particularly through innovative models like Advanced Access (AA). As healthcare policies evolve, nurses, including Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Registered Nurses (RNs), are increasingly positioned to improve patient access and care quality. However, gaps in understanding their roles within these frameworks persist, necessitating further investigation.

Methods: This study employed a qualitative approach to explore the experiences of NPs and RNs in adapting their practices following the implementation of the AA model. Data were collected through interviews with nursing staff across four healthcare settings in Quebec, focusing on the barriers and facilitators to practice transformation.

Results: Findings revealed significant differences in how RNs and NPs adapted to the AA model. NPs demonstrated a clearer understanding and effective restructuring of appointment systems, while RNs faced challenges due to insufficient engagement and leadership support. Key themes identified included regulatory influences, the importance of leadership in facilitating change, and the necessity for improved interprofessional collaboration.

Conclusion: The successful integration of the AA model in primary care requires tailored training and support for both RNs and NPs. Enhancing collaborative practices and leadership roles is essential to optimize nursing contributions and improve patient care access. This research underscores the need for ongoing evaluation of nursing practices to inform policy and practice changes in primary healthcare settings.