Nurses gain prescribing powers: What it means for patients and GPs

Registered nurses across Australia will soon be able to prescribe medicines. “Registered nurses prescribing will mean faster, local access to treatment and no more unnecessary delays or long journeys,” Professor Mills said. Royal Australian College of GPs president Michael Wright warned that expanding nurse prescribing could “reduce the opportunity for co-ordinated and comprehensive care”. “Designated registered nurse prescribing puts patients first without compromising public safety,” Professor Casey said. Credit: SuppliedLooking aheadThe rollout is phased, with the first prescribing nurses expected in 2026.