The differences in the three nurse prescribing tiers highlighting the different roles and the requirements to achieve prescribing rights.
Prescribing type
Designated prescriber
Scope of practice
Provides care for normally healthy people with minor conditions and illnesses using clinical pathways and decision-support tools. Works in a collaborative team with an authorised prescriber available for consultation.
Scope of medicines
Limited range of medicines for minor ailments in normally healthy people.
Qualification
Level 7 work-based programme (non-postgraduate), including supervised practice and credentialling.
Training programme
Midlands Collaborative RNPCH Programme is a NCNZ approved recertification programme with details found here.
Read more information on this role.
Prescribing type
Designated prescriber
Scope of practice
Diagnoses and manages common and long-term conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes, hypertension) within a collaborative team. An authorised prescriber is available for consultation.
Scope of medicines
Prescribes from a schedule of 200+ commonly used prescription medicines.
Qualification
Postgraduate Diploma in RN prescribing, including 150 hours of supervised clinical practice.
Read more on the NCNZ website.
Prescribing type
Authorised prescriber
Scope of practice
Independently assesses, diagnoses, and manages health conditions within a defined population and area of practice. May practise autonomously or within a healthcare organisation, consulting with colleagues as needed.
Scope of medicines
May prescribe any prescription medicine.
Qualification
Clinical master’s degree in nursing, including advanced prescribing practicum and a minimum of 300 supervised clinical hours.
Read more on the Nurse Practitioner Training Support Scheme website.
Jan Adams, General Manager MHN / Nursing Director
jan.adams@pinnacle.health.nz
021 904 460
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View detailsPinnacle is a recertification programme provider partner for designated registered nurse prescribers in community health (RNPCH).