Are practice nurse-led patient consultations acceptable for the general population in Germany? Results from a population-based survey

Abstract

Abstract Background Delegating tasks from the general practitioners (GPs) to practice nurses (PNs) may support healthcare challenges. While PN-led care is well accepted in countries with established models, transferability to Germany remains unclear. Qualitative data suggest openness towards PN-led consultations (PNLC), but quantitative evidence is scarce. Objectives To assess willingness, condition-specific preferences, and influencing factors towards PNLC in general population. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional online survey within the HeReCa-Study panel between July to September 2023 using a pretested questionnaire. Participants were randomly selected from five German states, stratified by urbanity and age. Analyses included descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression (IBM SPSS 25.0; R 4.5.2). Results The response was 50.0% (1,532/3,066). Approximately 39.7% received care in single-handed practices (SHP). Among included participants without prior PNLC experience (n = 1,419), willingness to accept PNLC was 83.6%. Willingness was highest for superficial wounds, respiratory infections, and chronic conditions and lowest for new-onset back pain. Higher trust in PNs’ professional (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.60–3.82) and communication skills (OR 1.80; 1.18–2.75) increased willingness. Older age (OR 0.32; 0.10–0.90 in 74–83 versus 22–33-year-olds) and treatment in SHP vs. no (OR 0.69; 0.48–0.99) were associated with lower willingness. Sex, regional variables and population density showed no relevant associations. Conclusion Acceptability of PNLC among the German general population is high. Trust in PNs’ professional and communication skills, and younger age, are associated with increased willingness for PNLC, while treatment in SHP showed a negative association. Our findings may inform implementation of PNLC in other countries.