[Nurse practitioner: experience of implementation in primary care]

The growth and continuing evolution of care needs, linked in particular to the aging of the population and the increase in chronic illnesses, have prompted the Canton of Vaud to promote innovative care models and new professional profiles, including recognition of the role of nurse practitioner (NP). Unisanté is actively involved in promoting and integrating this new role, with the support of the canton. A postgraduate training program for primary care NPs is currently being developed, and the opening of an innovative health center has made it possible to establish this role in the primary care medical practice. This account of our experience highlights the many challenges faced by the various partners during the first ten months of operation.