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Healthcare Jobs in Canada: You’re thinking about a career in healthcare but don’t know where to start. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which jobs offer stability, meaningful work, and a livable wage.

The good news is that healthcare is one of the fastest-growing fields with no shortage of opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top healthcare jobs expected to be in high demand in Canada over the next few years. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to make a career change, read on to learn about the promising healthcare roles that are worth considering if you want to help people, earn a decent living, and have a secure future in an essential industry. These jobs run the gamut from hands-on patient care to behind-the-scenes support positions, so there’s likely an option that aligns with your interests and talents no matter what path you choose.

What are Healthcare Job?

Healthcare jobs provide you with the opportunity to help people in meaningful ways. If you’re passionate about helping others and making a positive impact, a career in healthcare could be perfect for you.

Nurses

Nurses work directly with patients to provide care and support. There are many different types of nurses, including:

• Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care. They work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, home health agencies, and nursing care facilities.
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs) serve as primary and specialty care providers. They diagnose and treat common injuries and illnesses. NPs need a master’s degree and must be licensed.
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide basic nursing care under the direction of RNs and doctors. They typically need a postsecondary certificate or associate’s degree.

Doctors

Doctors examine patients, diagnose injuries and illnesses, and prescribe treatment. The major types of doctors include:

• General Practitioners or Family Physicians provide general medical care for people of all ages. They need many years of medical school and residency training.
• Specialists like surgeons, cardiologists, and pediatricians focus on a specific area of medicine. They require medical school, residency, and sometimes fellowship training.

Therapists

Therapists help people recover basic physical, speech, respiratory, and occupational abilities. This includes:

• Physical Therapists help patients who are recovering from injuries or illnesses regain movement and manage pain. They need a doctoral degree in physical therapy.
• Speech-Language Pathologists treat communication and swallowing disorders. They help patients improve speech and language skills. They typically need a master’s degree and must be licensed.
• Occupational Therapists help patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities improve their ability to perform daily activities. They also typically need a master’s degree and license.

In summary, healthcare jobs provide the opportunity to help people in impactful ways. The major types of healthcare jobs include nurses, doctors, and therapists. With the right education and training, you can have a fulfilling career improving people’s health and well-being.

Top Healthcare Jobs in Canada 2024

Canada’s aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services means employment opportunities in the healthcare sector are growing. Here are some of the top healthcare jobs projected to be in high demand in Canada in 2024:

1. Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients about health issues, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families. The number of RNs in Canada is expected to grow by 9% from 2019 to 2024. To become an RN, you need a bachelor’s degree in nursing and must pass the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination.

2. Nurse Practitioners

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) provide advanced nursing care like diagnosis and treatment. The number of NPs in Canada is projected to increase by 41% from 2019 to 2024. NPs need a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and additional training and certification. NPs can prescribe medication, order diagnostic tests, and have more responsibility than RNs.

3. Personal Support Workers

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) provide assistance with daily activities to clients in their homes or in care facilities. This field is expected to grow by 21% from 2019 to 2024. PSWs typically require a post-secondary certificate or diploma. Duties include bathing, dressing and feeding clients, as well as companionship and emotional support.

4. Pharmacists

Pharmacists dispense prescription medications and advise patients on proper use and dosage. Employment of pharmacists in Canada is expected to increase by 12% from 2019 to 2024. Becoming a pharmacist requires graduating from an accredited pharmacy program and obtaining a license. In addition to filling prescriptions, pharmacists educate patients about medications and check for interactions.

The healthcare sector provides opportunities for rewarding careers helping others. With the demand for healthcare services rising, these jobs offer job security and opportunities for career growth. If you’re looking for a career that makes a difference, consider healthcare.

READ ALSO: The Best in-Demand Jobs in Australia in 2024

FAQs

Do I need any special certifications or degrees?

While not always required, certain healthcare roles may prefer or require specific credentials, degrees or certifications. As an example, to become a registered nurse, you’ll need at minimum an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Some nursing positions may require additional certifications. For other roles like medical assistants, a post-secondary certificate or associate’s degree is typically enough. The key is to check with your target employers and provinces to determine their specific requirements.

How much do healthcare jobs pay in Canada?

Healthcare salaries can vary quite a bit depending on factors like job title, level of education, years of experience, location and employer. According to government data, the median salary for registered nurses in Canada is around $75,000. Nurse practitioners make over $100,000. A medical laboratory technician earns $50,000 on average while a licensed practical nurse makes $45,000. Salaries in major cities tend to be higher. Many healthcare employers also offer benefits like health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off.

What is the job outlook?

The healthcare industry in Canada is growing rapidly due to an aging population and increasing demand for services. The government projects job openings for nurses, nurse practitioners, medical laboratory technicians, paramedics and physiotherapists, among many other roles, to increase over the next several years. Healthcare support workers like personal support workers and medical assistants will also be in high demand.

Overall, healthcare offers stable career opportunities with solid earning potential. While roles and requirements vary, a desire to help people and make a difference are common traits across this field. With the right education and credentials for your chosen occupation, you can find a rewarding healthcare job in Canada.