Nurse Practitioner Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the vital contributions of our Nurse Practitioners to healthcare.

At Northern Health, Nurse Practitioners have been an integral part of our care model since the early 2000s, shaping the delivery of exceptional, patient-centred care across our services.

Today, Northern Health is proud to have over 30 Nurse Practitioners, and several candidates working towards endorsement.

These highly skilled professionals represent a wide range of specialties, including Aged Care, Diabetes, Emergency Department (ED), Mental Health, Endoscopy, Haematology, Heart Failure, Mental Health, Neonatal Care, Oncology, Pain Management, Palliative Care, Plastics, Pleural Care, Stroke, and Virtual ED.

“Nurse Practitioners play an important role in providing specialised care to patients, families and the community. Northern Health is fortunate to have such dedicated Nurse Practitioners in numerous specialities providing outstanding care,” said Vicki Malamatinas, Plastic and Reconstructive Nurse Practitioner, Northern Health.

With advanced education and clinical training, Nurse Practitioners are equipped to provide an extensive range of healthcare services.

From diagnosing and prescribing medications to performing procedures, interpreting diagnostic tests, and managing treatment plans, their expertise is critical to delivering holistic and comprehensive care.

“We, as Nurse Practitioners, are advanced practice nurses dedicated to ensuring best practice in patient care and safety,” said Nicole Gauthier, Pain Management Nurse Practitioner, Northern Health.

This dedicated week shines a light on the invaluable role Nurse Practitioners play in improving patient outcomes. Known for their holistic approach, Nurse Practitioners focus not only on treating illnesses but also on promoting overall health and wellbeing.

Their work embodies Northern Health’s values of safe, kind, and together, ensuring patients receive personalised and preventative care tailored to their needs.

Nurse Practitioner Week also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness of the expanding roles of Nurse Practitioners and advocate for policies that support their contributions to high-quality healthcare.

“Nurse Practitioners lead change in healthcare. We are advocates for helping our patients to prioritise health in their choices, understanding that every decision contributes to a healthier future,” said Elizabeth Mackey, Stroke Nurse Practitioner, Northern Health.

Tyson McLeod, one of our dedicated candidates, shared in a recent podcast about his candidacy and journey toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner – listen to his podcast here.

To all our Nurse Practitioners, thank you for the extraordinary difference you make every day.