Action on healthcare
Action on healthcare
Creating a skilled healthcare workforce for Nova Scotians will result in a more efficient, modern, equitable and respectful health ecosystem for all.
Advancing careers with CCA to PN bridge program
The Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) to Practical Nursing (PN) bridge pilot program provides 25 certified CCAs working in the sector with the opportunity to study in a blended Practical Nursing program at NSCC’s Truro Campus, free of charge. Supported by the Province, this first-in-Nova Scotia program provides a pathway for CCAs to become practical nurses while remaining on the job and earning a salary.
Expansion of Practical Nursing seats
With Provincial government support, NSCC continues to help address critical labour needs within the healthcare sector through the addition of 120 continuous and 180 one-time Practical Nursing seats. This extra capacity for learners in this in-demand field of study is helping to support the addition of more practical nurses being available for hire across the province.
Helping long-term care operators to go green
Customized modules were developed and delivered to long-term care homes to help make buildings more energy efficient. The 6-module, virtual course was offered to more than 120 long-term care facilities in the province, expanding capacity across Nova Scotia by educating building managers on best practices related to sustainability and energy efficiency.
Training Continuing Care Assistants faster
NSCC, the Province and Shannex collaborated on a new training program for Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) with updated curriculum which will allow students to complete CCA training in a shorter time. The 6-month program, which is being tested, is supported by a $3.6 million Provincial government investment. The program will continue to focus on resident safety, personal care, and social and mental wellbeing.
Additional Medical Laboratory Technologist seats
More Medical Laboratory Technologists are being trained with the number of program seats increasing from 40 to 60. This additional capacity will ensure more Medical Laboratory Technologists are trained and ready to fill needs within this critical health profession. The program, which is primarily in-person learning, prepares students to perform essential laboratory testing and investigations crucial for diagnosis, treatment and prevention across the province.
Starleen Gould
Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) Eskasoni cohort, Marconi Campus
Envisioning a brighter future where she could provide a secure life for her family and fulfill her true calling as a caregiver, Starleen enrolled in the Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) Eskasoni cohort. Starleen now works full time as a CCA at the Kiknu long-term care facility in Eskasoni.
“I’m grateful to have had the unique opportunity to learn in my community, in my language and with my people.”
health and human services graduates entering the workforce in 2023-24
new healthcare offerings (CCA and PN) at 8 NSCC campuses in 2023-24