Personal Support Worker: A Stepping-Stone Towards Health Career

Many students aspiring for a healthcare career tell us that it is so competitive and long to adapt a healthcare career in Canada. We respectfully disagree. Personal Support Worker is one such career that has helped many mature students in Canada and new immigrants to begin their careers in healthcare in short duration with many flexible job options.

It is no surprise that baby boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964) are increasingly requesting assistance for their needs of living and healthcare. Personal Support Workers enables public and private institutions to offer these services to baby boomers and other senior citizens.

The usual work place is a long-term care center or homes of seniors. The work is organized as shifts of 4 hours to 8 hours. The tasks include assistance in personal care, home tasks, and some medical assistance (e.g., helping with medications). Average salaries range from $18 per hour with shifts. The median income is around $21 per hour. Given the job opportunities available across Canada, this profession can be a stepping stone towards other health careers in Canada with a descent starting salary.

The Canadian College of Healthcare and Pharmaceutics offers the Personal Support Worker program that is accredited by the National Association of Career Colleges of Canada and is only 31 weeks long (approx. six months). Students receive assistance in job search in public and private institutions.