A New Primary Care Model Based on Population Needs: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Primary Health Care
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The professional profile of the nurse specialist in Primary Health Care was established in Spain in 2005.
• The full scope of practice for these specialists remains underutilized.
• Understanding user expectations is crucial for optimizing their role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore adult primary health care users' demands and expectations regarding the role of the nurse specialist.
• To assess public perception of the nurse specialist's scope of practice in Spain.

Main Methods:

• Nationwide cross-sectional study utilizing computer-assisted telephone surveys.
• A random sample of 1200 adults in Spain participated.
• A 19-item instrument assessed perceptions of the nurse specialist role.

Main Results:

• 82.3% of participants would choose a primary health care nurse specialist.
• 70% believe these nurses should be able to order diagnostic tests.
• 63.8% support nurse specialists prescribing medications for chronic diseases.

Conclusions:

• The Spanish population holds a positive view towards expanding the scope of practice for primary health care nurse specialists.
• Healthcare models should consider increasing the competencies of these professionals.
• Expanding nurse specialist roles can enhance primary health care services.