Meet the nurse you want treating you as you get old

She’s 10 years into her career, but this Darling Downs nurse has committed to improving her craft with an innovative training program for “healthy ageing”.

Kristen Jefferson (right) is one of 14 nurses who is participating in the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) Chronic Disease Management and Healthy Ageing Program.

Darling Downs nurse Kristen Jefferson has been working in hospitals for 10 years, but she is living proof that you’re never too experienced to learn something new.

She is one of 14 nurses selected to participate in the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association Chronic Disease Management and Healthy Ageing Program.

The innovative program is designed for nurses who specialise in primary health care and involves specifically tailored workshops and modules.

“I have been able to strengthen my knowledge which has enabled me to deliver health assessments that are more than just a systematic tick box approach,” Mrs Jefferson said.

“The support with care planning and co-ordination has really been of benefit for myself, my practice and patients.”

Two out of every five people in the Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN region are currently managing a chronic disease, and over 90 per cent of people who are specifically managing cardiovascular disease or diabetes regularly seeing their GP.

Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN CEO Merrilyn Strohfeldt commended the program for providing a responsive learning platform for nurses in the region.

“Providing local nurses with an opportunity to improve their knowledge and skills helps the health workforce better support the ageing population to manage their condition,” Ms Strohfeldt said.

“This is important as half of people aged over 55 in our region are currently managing a chronic disease.”