Primary Health Nurses are the most regular point of contact for people receiving palliative care at home. They are generalist nurses who provide many different types of care and assessment, including palliative care. They work closely with the patient's carers, doctor/GP and specialist teams to support patients to live as well as possible.

Primary Health Nurses provide nursing care and ongoing assessments, to help families address problems as they arise. They talk with them about the ongoing needs and wishes of people who are being cared for at home. They also provide information and support, as well as referrals to other services if needed.

If the patient is linked to the Specialist Community Palliative Care Service, and their symptoms become complex or difficult to manage, the Primary Health Nurses will request that the Specialist Community Palliative Care Service review patient symptoms.

Referral to Primary Health Nursing can be made by patients, any service provider or medical officer. Referrals are made to the Access and Referral Centre (ARC) by calling 1300 792 755.

Primary Health Nurses, previously known as Community Nurses, are based in local Integrated Primary and Community Health Centres throughout the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.