The first group of Enrolled Nurses have started as part of a new model of care for renal services in Central Australia. 

With the Northern Territory experiencing the highest incidence of renal disease in Australia and renal services provided by the Central Australia Health Service (CAHS) growing exponentially over the last seven years, this innovative program has been introduced to help drive cost efficient and effective service delivery.

“A review of the nursing model at the Flynn Drive Renal Dialysis Unit has created the opportunity to employ Enrolled Nurses under a pioneering training scheme to become dialysis competent,” said Carol McPherson, Nursing Director, Preventable Chronic Disease and Ambulatory Services.

The pilot program commences this month with a second intake of Enrolled Nurses planned for May.

This program will have significant impact in terms of the opportunities for Enrolled Nurses to expand their skill base and scope of practice, as well as becoming a model of care for the CAHS renal services.

“This initiative will go a long way towards meeting the increase in renal service activity by alleviating the growth in staffing and overtime,” Ms. McPherson said.

“The demand for renal services is predicted to continue to grow by at least 4.5 per cent per annum in Central Australia so the enterprise will allow for greater mobility of the renal Registered Nurse workforce across the health service.

“The staff members at the Flynn Drive Renal Dialysis Unit enthusiastically welcome the new cohort while continuing to provide robust care for our community,” she said.

The Central Australia Health Service is governed by a Statutory Board and is responsible for the Alice Springs and Tennant Creek Hospitals.  It has a primary role in health service delivery in the region, including primary health care, mental health, oral health, cancer screening services and alcohol and other drug services.

Media Contact: Gail Liston 8951 5111 or 0476 839 383