WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is offering tuition support to uncertified health-care aides to enhance their skills.
The $3.4 million initiative will allow for approximately 120 students to take a part-time course over 24 weeks.
The province first hired uncertified health-care aides in 2020, following a one-week training course, to support residents living in personal care homes during the pandemic. Once aides become certified in their field, it will allow them the necessary industry credential to become permanent, long-term employees.
“Uncertified health-care aides have been a welcome addition during the pandemic to support care in long-term care,” said Kevin Scott, chief operating officer, Deer Lodge Centre, Middlechurch Home and River Park Gardens.
“The opportunity for these individuals to upgrade their qualifications and become certified means they will be able to carry out all the duties of a health-care aide and provide the best possible care for residents.”
Robertson College worked closely with Shared Health on the launch and delivery of the health-care aide bridging program.
“We understand there is an urgent need for this program. With our existing HCA resources and instructor network, we have been able to work quickly to bring this program to market,” said Terena Caryk, vice-president of product and operations at Robertson College.
“Robertson’s hybrid delivery approach will provide students with the flexibility they need to continue their employment with Shared Health and complete their studies.”
The certification course will be held over the coming year through a mix of virtual and in-person learning. Applications can be filled out online.
