Health Minister has highlighted the
significant contribution of Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs)
in both supporting GPs in Primary Care and facilitating health
transformation.
ANPs hold a Master's level degree in Advanced Nursing Practice
and manage complete episodes of patient care using advanced
knowledge and skills to improve health outcomes for the
population. They work across a range of settings alongside
medical colleagues and other health professionals and play a
vital role within the Health and Social Care system, including in
Primary Care.
They can assess symptoms, diagnose, treat and/or refer patients
with undifferentiated diagnosis.
The Minister said: “Addressing health inequalities is one
of my top priorities as Health Minister, therefore I would like
to commend the valuable expertise of our Advanced Nurse
Practitioners in caring for people with complex health needs
throughout their life span.
“I am acutely aware of the unprecedented challenges faced
within Primary Care, such as increased workload and workforce
issues, and I recognise the huge contribution of ANPs, both in
supporting GPs and indeed facilitating transformation throughout
the entire HSC system.
“I want to thank you for your contribution which is
fundamental to creating a healthier more inclusive society for
everyone in Northern Ireland.”
Minister Nesbitt made his comments during a visit to Clough
Surgery, where he met ANPs to discuss their role and function in
Primary Care and how ANPs work collaboratively within GP
practices. He was accompanied by Chief Nursing Officer Professor
Maria McIlgorm and Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael
McBride.
Dr Alex Greer, Senior Partner, Clough Surgery, said: “ANPs are an
integral part of the modern primary healthcare team. We are
delighted that we have been able to highlight to the Minister the
value of Primary Care nurses and of training programmes for ANPs
and practice nurses to ensure a stable workforce into the
future.”
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: CMO Prof Sir Michael McBride, CNO Prof Maria
McIlgorm, Elaine Colhoun ANP, Maura Devlin MBE Director of
Nursing Down Federation, Health Minister , Nicky Brown ANP, Dr Alex
Greer.
- The Department of Health has commissioned the development of
a new MSc Advanced Practice programme for Nurses, Midwives and
Allied Health Professionals. The programme, which will be
delivered from September 2025, will have an overarching MSc award
in Advanced Practice with sub exit pathways to define the unique
route of a nurse, midwife or allied health professional.
- The introduction of the ANP role was developed to enhance the
role of the nurse as an autonomous practitioner, reduce workload
pressure and increase flexibility and capacity within the system.
