The Northern Territory has finally come into line with the rest of Australia with the introduction of the ability to authorise in the NT as Nurse Practitioner from May 2008.  As of January 2009 there are currently three authorised NPs in the Northern Territory with more nurses graduating and applying for authorisation through the NT NMB.  The Nursing and Midwifery Board has approved three pathways for authorisation: mutual recognition, successful completion of an approved Master’s award, and equivalence to Masters demonstrated by portfolio and interview.  Pathway 3, for application via equivalence, will continue until 31 Dec 2009.

The implementation of the NP role in the NT has full support of the Minister for Health, Department of Health and Families, and other health care, education and regulatory leaders.  An NP Steering Committee chaired by the Principal Nursing Officer and including members from across the public and private sectors as well as other key stakeholders has been working on the implementation process.  Last September an one day workshop was held focusing on the challenges and aims in the NP implementation process. This was very well received with over 30 participants attending the first of many education sessions to come.

There are currently two NP candidate positions in remote, with additional positions advertised in remote, mental health, chronic disease and emergency.  Other areas also looking at implementing the role. 

This is an exciting and new path for NT nurses.  No doubt many challenges lie ahead as the path is newly trodden in the NT. We look forward to joining the national team of  Nurse Practitioners as we come of age in the implementation of Nurse Practitioners in the Northern Territory.