According to the 2016 Government Census, over 335,000 immigrants end up in the Canadian healthcare sector. Healthcare workers will have a better chance of having a successful immigration process than the rest.
This is because of the high rate of technological advancement. Asides that, a significant percentage of the workers are due for retirement and we can’t ignore the fact that the country has an ageing population.
The coronavirus pandemic has also increased the demand for competent healthcare workers in many developed countries. This guide will help you to discover the various healthcare jobs in Canada and the benefits that come with them.
What are the benefits of working in the Canadian public healthcare sector?
- Career advancement
You should consider this industry if you’re interested in advancing your career. Training courses serve as an opportunity to hone your skills and delve into other related careers. The good thing is that the government will cover the cost.
- Sound health
Some of the medical coverage you will enjoy once you start working in the healthcare sector include vision care and prescription drugs. The insurance plan will also cover hospitalization for you and your family members.
- Permanent residency
The healthcare industry is an easy route for immigrants with student permits to become a permanent resident. Most immigrants achieve this through any of the provincial government programs such as the Atlantic Graduate Pilot, Manitoba’s International Education Stream, and Ontario PhD Graduate Stream.
Bear it in mind that you may need a valid job offer before you can apply for some of the immigration categories above.
The latest technologies are paving the way for more opportunities in many industries. A significant percentage of STEM professionals in Canada work in the healthcare sector. Chances are you will have an edge over other applicants if you have sound STEM skills.
- Select a territory or province
There are several healthcare jobs in Ontario, Newfoundland, British Columbia, Alberta, and Labrador than in other provinces in Canada. It’s advisable to focus on these areas first.
- Have a plan for your entry
You can try getting a work permit if you’re not ready to go through the hassles of permanent residency yet. This document will enable you to work in Canada once you have a job offer. Working in Canada in the healthcare field will make you more eligible for the permanent residency status.
However, if you opt for permanent residency, it’s imperative to handle this via any of the Express Entry programs which include the Canada Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Make sure that you understand what each immigration category entails before you commit yourself to it.
- Submit your application
Here are some of the documents you will need to submit if you’re planning to work in the Canadian healthcare sector:
- Employment reference letters
- Language tests
- Accredited qualifications
- Police certificates
- Medical Council of Canada certificate.
Top healthcare jobs in Canada
- Healthcare Manager
A Masters of Health Administration (MHA) is essential for this career. Applicants must have in-depth knowledge in organization administration, health policies, healthcare administration, planning and evaluation, health services management.
- Pharmacist
You need to obtain a Bachelors Degree in Pharmacy before you can become a pharmacist. This program often spans 4 years which takes four years to complete and you are expected to sit for the National Qualifying Exam through the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada.
You can also apply to work as a Pharmacy Technician or Pharmacy Assistant.
- Nursing Supervisor
The Nursing Supervisor role involves managing nursing staff in different facilities like a nursing home, hospital or clinic. The requirements for this position include:
- 5 years of clinical experience
- Management training
- A valid degree as a Registered Nurse.
Apart from working as a nursing supervisor, you can also work as a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
- Dental Hygienist
Patients usually meet the dental hygienist or assistant first once they arrive for dental care. Their roles include assisting dentists, taking x-rays, cleaning and scaling. The educational requirement is to complete a 3-year Diploma Program.
Their roles vary from province to province, so contact your local College for more information. Other similar positions include Intra Oral Dental Assistant and Dental Assistant.
- Health Care Aide
Health Care Aides (HCA) take care of individuals with special needs, seniors and the chronically ill. They are also referred to as Nursing Assistants, Health Care Assistants and Resident Care Attendants (RCA).
These are just a few of the available healthcare jobs in Canada. Other positions you can consider include Health Policy Specialist, Respiratory Therapist, Medical Radiation Technologist, Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist.
