​​The ‘nursing associate’ role was introduced in England in 2017, and the role is intended to allow for training in an apprenticeship style.

The overall aim of this study is to explore the perceptions and experiences of nursing associates (NAs) within primary care in England that may affect the implementation of their role within primary care. 

An ethnographic study will be conducted that encompasses a documentary review, interviews, observations, and a survey.  A documentary analysis will be conducted to determine how national policy describe the scope and rationale of the nursing associate role within primary care. Interviews with  national stakeholders will also be conducted to triangulate points identified from the documentary analysis.

Interviews and observations at a sample of GP practices from four distinct geographical areas, across England will also take place to address the questions below.

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• What are the experiences of nursing associates from the point of view of nursing associates, and other healthcare staff within primary care? 

• What are the perceptions of the nursing associate role within primary care in terms of patient safety and quality?  

• What is the impact of the nursing associate role? 

• How does primary care culture affect the implementation of the nursing associate role (division of labour, team dynamics, scope creep, introduction of new roles)?

• What are the facilitators and barriers to the safe and effective delivery of the nursing associate role? 

A qualitative survey will also be conducted with patients registered within the sampled GPs to determine the public view of nursing associates within primary care.

Lead Investigator

Cecilia Vindrola-Padros