ABSTRACT
Primary healthcare generally is the first point of contact for a patient entering the health system. Secondary care is provided by a facility or specialist after referral by a primary health clinician. The establishment of Local Hospital Networks across the country is underway as a strategy to optimize delivery, coordination and access to secondary health services. Across the states and territories, the naming conventions, role descriptions and functions of nurse employment differ. Assistants in Nursing are a much-valued part of the nursing workforce, and have played a role in the healthcare system for many years. An Enrolled Nurse (EN) has completed a Certificate IV or Diploma of Nursing (EN) and provides nursing care under the direction and supervision of an Registered Nurse as part of the healthcare team. A midwife is a degree-qualified clinician who works in partnership with women to provide support during pregnancy, childbirth, care of the newborn, and matters of sexual and reproductive health.
