Pathways is a nurse-led virtual clinic implemented within a formal protocol-based consultation.
Pathways enables better primary care and community-based management, access to services and supports the uptake of existing services and health initiatives – even in the most challenging settings.
The Pathways difference
Health system navigation models of care focus on educating patients about the services and treatments they need.
Pathways uses an access model of care.
This is more complex than the outdated navigation model of care and ensures patients not only know about the services and treatment they need, but have the ability to access those that are available to them and that those services fit their specific needs.
Pathways nurses “sit” virtually within communities – working with patient groups, civil society, health charities – and is integrated in the health system. Pathways nurses work closely with key clinicians within the health system.
Pathways nurses implement on average 10,000 assessments and interventions per 1,000 patients
Each Pathways nurse is supported through an intensive training period and assessments before commencing in clinical practice. What makes a Pathways nurse unique is their ability to use every available resource in the health system – even in situations where resources are scarce or restricted. Three words often used to describe a Pathways nurse are: Professional – Knowledgable – Compassionate
Nurses often have the closest relationship and most presence with patients and families.
Pathways nurses are no exception
Pathways nurses are supported in their roles through professional development, personal development, peer support and debriefing and other activities to protect their emotional health to avoid burnout. If we don’t protect and support our nurses, we risk leaving patients without the care they need.
Pathways protocol development
The nurse-led assessments, interventions and scope of practice were confirmed in a formal pilot program over three years that assessed what is actually possible in a community-based, nurse-led Telehealth clinic. Through the pilot a number of assessments and interventions were confirmed with clinical guidelines developed. As we continue to innovate, additional assessments are interventions are tested.
Awards and recognition
2025: Top ten Aster Guardians Global Nursing prize out of 100,000+ candidates
2024: Australia Primary Health Care Nurses Association, President’s Award for a legacy contribution to primary care
