Skill Mix and Task Shifting
Implementing a new skill mix may involve task shifting where individual elements of care are
undertaken by a different cohort of staff. Examples include the expanded role of mental
health nurse practitioners in treating depression and anxiety disorders and assessing
patients who are receiving anti-psychotic injections8 and nurses in advanced roles making
specialist referrals. As well, certain tasks may be shifted from nurses to less qualified staff
such as health care assistants or administrative workers. The World Health Professions
Alliance (WHPA) representing more than 25 million health professionals worldwide and
where ICN is a major partner have set up key principles for task shifting, as outlined in the
following table: