Contribution by primary health nurses and general practitioners to the Diabetes Annual Review (Get Checked) programme in Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

The 'Get Checked' annual diabetes review programme was successful in engaging practice and community-based specialist nurses in the community management of diabetes and has revealed positive relationships between nurses and doctors, extended roles for nurses and the importance of engaging nurses in the design of health care programmes. Nurses involved in the programme undertake a large proportion of all patient annual reviews at their practice and major nursing roles include measuring blood pressure, weighing patients, undertaking foot examinations and giving health promotional advice. DHBs need to continue to acknowledge the valuable contribution made by the largest health professional workforce and ensure primary health care nurses are involved in developing an effective replacement ‘Get Checked’ programme.