Faced with the need for more Health Care Assistants, the BC Government, through ministries of Health and Advanced Education, Skills and Training, is providing over $3.6 million over the next two years to create 418 new health care assistant seats in 14 post-secondary institutions throughout British Columbia.
Health care assistants, also known as care aides or community health workers, provide personal support services for people living with disabilities and those living with acute or chronic illnesses, including seniors. They work in a variety of settings, including long-term care homes, acute care, home support and assisted living.
There are currently an estimated 25,500 health-care assistants employed by health authorities and affiliated employers in British Columbia.
Across the province there are 17 public post-secondary institutions that offer health care assistant training in Certificate programs approximately six to 10 months long. The first of the new seats became available in September 2019 and there will be more added for Fall 2020.