New Zealand Heart Failure Workforce Survey 2023

Abstract

Aim: The aims of this study are to describe the current status of the heart failure nursing workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand, identify key challenges and provide recommendations.

Method: In March 2023, a survey coordinated by the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand and the New Zealand Regional Heart Failure Working Group was distributed to all district health boards in Aotearoa New Zealand. The survey collected data on heart failure nursing resources, including full-time equivalent (FTE) per population, clinical versus non-clinical time, scope of practice, nurse-led services, and performance measures.

Results: A total of 23 hospital responded, yielding a 100% response rate and revealing varied resource allocation across district health boards. While FTE rates have generally increased, nearly half of the boards reported less than one FTE per 100,000 population, with only three reaching the recommended two FTE per 100,000 as endorsed by the British Society for Heart Failure.

Conclusion: This foundational survey highlights the current status of the heart failure nursing workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand. It suggests that increasing the number of specialised nursing staff, particularly nurse practitioners (NP), to meet international standards would improve access to timely, effective and equitable treatment for all heart failure patients. Increasing NP FTE across hospital and community settings is likely to enhance healthcare and social outcomes, especially in under-served regions. Further research focussing on ethnicity, geographic distribution and workforce participation is recommended to guide targeted workforce development.