New Brunswick’s Growing Demand for Personal Support Workers

Over the past few years, there has been an immense increase of demand for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in Canada, especially in a province like New Brunswick, where a shortage of trained professionals has been really acute. Demographic changes, an aging population and changing face of healthcare fuel this surge. For future PSWs, there is a golden opportunity to establish a well rewarding career within a fulfilling environment as they make a great impact in their communities. Institutions like NBBT College are stepping up to fill this need, providing a 22-week focused Personal Support Worker Certificate Program.

Why New Brunswick needs more PSW’S

1. Population that is Aging and Healthcare Needs

According to Canada, New Brunswick is one of the provinces that has the highest percentage of seniors. Statistics Canada says about 22 per cent of the province's population is older than 65. The result is an unprecedented need for long term care facility, assisted living and home care services.

The daily care and companionship many seniors need is simply not possible without Personal Support Workers. PSWs provide everything from helping elderly with mobility and personal hygiene to emotional support to help improve their quality of life.

2. Growing Healthcare Worker Shortages

There are worker shortages at every level across the board in New Brunswick’s healthcare industry. But many hospitals, nursing homes and community care centers struggle to staff up. PSWs are important in filling the gap by providing the patients with hands on care and support, relieving some load from registered nurses (RN) and other allied healthcare professionals.

3. Government Funding and Initiatives

The provincial and federal governments understand the value of PSWs and are taking steps to entice additional people into this profession. New Brunswick is trying to attract and retain healthcare workers through programs such as tuition support, job placement guarantees and fast track certification. It is however by enrolling in accredited programs like the one at NBBT College that these benefits are made available to kickstart a student’s career.

"The Demand is Rising – Be Part of the Solution with NBBT’s PSW Training!"

NBBT College has a role to play in addressing the demand.

The 22-week Personal Support Worker Certificate Program delivered by NBBT College is intended to serve the increasing need for PSWs in New Brunswick. This course provides skills and knowledge to the students to succeed in health care industry. Here’s how NBBT College is making a difference:

1. Comprehensive Curriculum

NBBT College PSW program includes such important topics like personal care, infection control, communication skills and mental health support. Students are given hands on training that gets them ready for practical situations with which they will have to deal with once they have graduated.

2. Accelerated Career Path

Because the course lasts only 22 weeks, students can get to work right away. This is perfect for people who want to start a career in healthcare but don’t want to spend years of education.

3. High Employment Rates

Employers in New Brunswick value the education of graduates from the NBBT College PSW program. The program emphasizes its practical training and industry alignment, enabling them to become ready for the job that they will take in the future.

The Career Opportunities for PSWs in New Brunswick are:

1. Employment in Long-Term Care Facilities

PSWs are among the largest employees in New Brunswick long term care homes. PSWs assist day to day in these facilities to help residents feel comfortable, and well.

2. Opportunities in Home Care

With ever more seniors choosing to age in place, demand for home care services is soaring. PSWs are a vital link in helping senior stay as independent as possible, while receiving the care they need in their own homes.

3. Roles in Hospitals and Clinics

In hospitals and outpatient clinics PSWs help patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. Their work helps to enhance patient outcomes, and simplifies healthcare services.

4. Private Sector Opportunities

There are also many private agencies which employ PSWs, who cater to those families that prefer having a PSW from a private agency care for their loved ones. PSWs in this sector provide them a flexible and variety work environment.

Why Choose a Career as a PSW?

1. Job Security

PSWs are in great demand in the healthcare sector on a consistent basis. PSWs will have stable employment options in New Brunswick, where the aging population is just going to keep growing.

2. Rewarding Work

There are few professions that come with the emotional rewards as being a PSW. It’s very fulfilling to be able to help people to maintain their dignity, their independence and quality of life.

3. Pathway to Growth

PSW is a stepping stone to many of the careers in healthcare. PSWs go on to continue their education on to becoming registered nurses and healthcare managers.

Conclusion

The demand for Personal Support Workers in New Brunswick is Growing. As the province’s population ages and the call for compassionate care increases, the needs for PSWs are greater than ever. If you’re thinking of taking this career route, NBBT College’s 22-week Personal Support Worker Certificate Program is a great place to start. NBBT College combines vast training with practical work experience to deliver graduates that are well thought of with regards to having the needs of this rewarding profession.

"The Future of Healthcare Needs You – Start Your PSW Journey with NBBT!"