Ontario has announced a significant investment of nearly $17 million to train 700 new personal support workers (PSWs) and nurses for long-term care (LTC) employment by 2025. This initiative builds on the success of existing programs that have already supported thousands of students and upskilled staff.
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Building on Proven Success
The new investment aligns with two provincial programs that have already achieved impressive results. According to a government news release, over 27,000 students have completed placements in LTC homes, and 170 long-term care staff have advanced their skills to become certified PSWs.
This funding is part of Ontario’s broader Your Health Plan, which aims to recruit and train tens of thousands of new long-term care employees in the coming years.
A Long-Term Commitment to Quality Care
Ontario Long-Term Care Minister Natalia Kusendova-Bashta emphasized the importance of this investment for both residents and workers.
“Our government is growing the long-term care workforce so residents get more of the high-quality care they need in the right place,” said Kusendova-Bashta.
“At the same time, we’re helping people upskill to new careers and making sure nursing and PSW students gain meaningful hands-on experience as part of their training.”
Expanding Key Programs for PSWs and Nurses
Of the $17 million investment:
- $14 million will go toward expanding the Preceptor Resource and Education Program for Long-Term Care (PREP LTC).
- Since its launch in 2022, this program has supported 500 long-term care homes in providing clinical placements for over 27,500 nursing and PSW students.
- $2.6 million will fund the expansion of the PSW Learn and Earn Accelerated Program at Humber Polytechnic.
- This program focuses on helping existing LTC staff receive training to become certified PSWs.
Incentives for Future PSWs and Nurses
Ontario is also continuing to offer incentives for students and recent graduates of personal support worker education programs. These incentives encourage careers in long-term care homes and the home and community care sector, addressing the growing need for qualified professionals.
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Strengthening the Future of Long-Term Care in Ontario
The province’s investment demonstrates a clear commitment to supporting the long-term care sector by expanding training opportunities and upskilling workers. This will ultimately ensure that residents receive the high-quality care they need while offering pathways for meaningful, hands-on careers in health care.
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