‘This additional support will reduce financial barriers that may be in place for those wishing to access training for these skilled positions’
Prince Edward Island (PEI) has launched a new program to provide financial assistance to locals who want to work in the healthcare industry.
The Healthcare Priorities program will provide funding for up to 70 per cent of course fees for those seeking post-secondary training as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Resident Care Workers (RCWs).
“LPNs and RCWs are both very valuable professions within the Island’s health care system, offering care to patients in a variety of settings across the province. This additional support will reduce financial barriers that may be in place for those wishing to access training for these skilled positions,” said Ernie Hudson, health and wellness minister. “I am pleased that this will increase the number of LPNs and RCWs working in the province and further strengthen our health care workforce.”
The program will add 60 more spaces for LPNs and RCWs to access post-secondary education in PEI in the 2021-2022 school year. This will result in approximately 250 new health care professionals working in the system in the next five years, according to the government.
The pilot program was created by the Departments of Health and Wellness, and Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture in collaboration with Holland College, Collège de l'Île and Marguerite Connolly Training & Consulting. It is funded by the Department of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements.
“We are pleased to provide funding through SkillsPEI and to work with our post-secondary institutions on the delivery of this training,” said Matthew MacKay, minister of economic growth, tourism and culture. “By working together, this new pilot program can provide more Islanders with the opportunity to pursue their desired career and strengthen our workforce.”
In January, Manitoba signed a partnership that will allow healthcare workers delivering care in settings that pose an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 to select the most appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) they require.
