GPDV will be working with Victorian divisions to support nursing in general practice through divisions for the remainder of 2005 to:

* increase the number of divisions running nursing support programs;
* increase the uptake of practice nursing PIP payments or MBS practice nurse items;
* increase the number of practice nurses undertaking training in key priority or competency areas.

Funds for training and support will be allocated based on practice nurses' needs for education and training within division areas, taking account of difficulties in accessing training and development, such as working in a rural area. GPDV is currently consulting all divisions about the needs in their areas and preparing a list of objectives for a possible extension of the program past 31/12/05, although no guarantee has been made about an extension of funding.

GPDV will work with the six Demonstration Divisions (Monash, Central Bayside, Dandenong, Eastern Ranges, Greater South Eastern, Mornington Peninsula and SouthCity) which were funded by DoHA to build the capacity of divisions to support nursing in general practice. They have now been funded to allow them to work with GPDV to support other divisions in developing or enhancing their practice nursing programs.

We will also establish a reference group of representatives from Victorian divisions, the Australian Practice Nurses Association (APNA), DHS, the Royal College of Nursing Australia (RCNA) to advise on the development of this program in Victoria.

For further information about the program, please contact Belinda Caldwell on 9341 5200.