Australian consumers' expectations for expanded nursing roles in general practice: choice not gatekeeping.

While research has focused on the current and potential role of the practice nurse (PN) in Australia, the acceptability of this role by consumers has not been investigated. In 2002, two independent studies were carried out into consumer perceptions of PNs. A discussion between the two groups of researchers at the inaugural National Practice Nurse Conference in 2003, identified significant similarities in the findings of the these studies. This article reports the combined findings as they relate to consumer's desire for access to the health practitioner of their choice, and their concern that PNs may assume a Gatekeeping role. These perceptions may have significant impact on the acceptance of PNs across Australia. (author abstract