The role of the primary healthcare nurse practitioner (NP-PHC) has a long history in Ontario.
In this paper, we describe the evolution of the role with a focus on geographic distribution, a
profile of client populations and the services provided by NP-PHCs. Comparisons will be
made to findings from previous studies and reports on the NP-PHC role in Ontario. In 2004
and 2005, two-thirds of the nurse practitioners registered with the College of Nurses of
Ontario responded to a descriptive self-reporting survey. The data collected revealed that …

with underserviced and marginalized populations, in community health centres and in
outpatient areas within acute care hospitals. They provide the entire spectrum of primary
healthcare services. Barriers to fully enacting the role are related to restrictive legislation that
limits NP prescribing and diagnosing, and the ability to work to full scope of practice in
hospitals (for example, in emergency departments). Targeted funding has promoted the role
throughout the province. However, inadequate and insecure pilot funding continues to be a …