Addressing inequity for patients of NPs

Whether a patient chooses attachment to a family physician or nurse practitioner (NP), they should have access to PCN programs and services to support their primary care needs.

So, through our Board-approved NP Service Access Program, we have begun accepting applications from nurse practitioners to join our PCN as affiliated providers like the other three urban PCNs in Calgary.

“As a physician, I’m pleased to welcome nurse practitioners into our PCN through the NP Service Access Program. NPs care for a growing number of patients in our communities, and this program means more of those patients can benefit from the team-based care our member practices already rely on. I know some of you may be wondering what this means for your own patients. This program does not change how your patients access PCN programs and services. The Board and PCN leadership will be watching demand and wait times closely as the program rolls out, and we will adjust our approach if we see any pressure on capacity.”

— Dr. Amanda Wang, Chair of our Board of Directors

Based on the nature of their practice, NPs will be assigned a service access type — Associate, Standard, Enhanced, or Comprehensive — that mirrors our membership types so that they have access to our programs and services for their patients.

NPs will not join as members like physicians, so they are ineligible to attend or vote at AGMs or to serve on the Board of Directors or related committees. They are also not eligible to work shifts at the Primary Care Centre.

At this time, we know of fewer than 10 NPs who may join our PCN, and we look forward to supporting their patients.

Please contact your Physician Liaison if you have questions.