Complexities of Introducing Group Medical Visits With Nurse Practitioners in British Columbia

Abstract

In Canada, increasing numbers of people with chronic conditions have prompted calls for innovative approaches to delivering primary care. These approaches may include group medical visits (GMVs) and the introduction of nurse practitioners (NPs). We examined why NPs in the province of British Columbia were not using GMVs. This case study is part of a larger research project that examined the impact of GMVs with NPs for patients with chronic conditions. We completed open-ended interviews with seven NPs working in primary care. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed. Data were analyzed using interpretive descriptive approaches. Three major themes emerged: (a) advantages of GMVs, (b) questioning the fit of GMVs in current practice contexts, and (c) navigating scope of practice and role constraints that affect NPs’ ability to use GMVs. Power dynamics and hierarchies may influence NPs’ ability to adapt to GMVs. Consideration of practice environments and structures that enable the NPs ability to diffuse and utilize health-care innovative care delivery methods is needed.