NHS Direct: examining the challenges for nursing practice. 
This article examines the impact of the launch of NHS Direct which was part of the Government's vision for a modern and dependable NHS.  In particular, the challenges for nursing practice are detailed within a healthcare strategy which seeks to provide fast access primary health care to the whole population.  The strengths and weaknesses of NHS Direct are discussed and its interface with other agencies explored.  As NHS Direct will cover the whole of England by October 2000, the evidence to underpin its effectiveness must be considered in the light of media criticisms which indicate that the quality of advice given to callers is sometimes less than optimum.