As cases of COVID-19 plateau in Canada, and life slowly returns to a ‘new normal,’ many Canadians are taking time to reflect on what they can learn from this unprecedented experience. While everyone will come to their own conclusions, there’s one thing that most would likely agree on – the importance of health care workers.

Pandemic or not, the work of caring for those in need is heroic, selfless, and essential. Health care assistants play a key role in making sure that the elderly, injured or disabled persons and chronically ill people get the support they need. 

But what people may not know is that a career in health care assisting is as in-demand as it is essential. The Canadian Government has indicated that demand for health care assistants (HCAs) is expected to grow rapidly in the near future. If you’ve ever been interested in becoming a health care assistant, here are a few reasons why now’s the perfect time to pursue it!

1. Job Prospects Are Booming for Health Care Assistants

In times of economic uncertainty, job security is an especially important factor for those considering a new career. People want to be extra sure that any schooling they invest in will pay off – no matter what state the world is in. 

Luckily for those who want to pursue HCA training, there is an especially high demand for these professionals. The growing and aging population in Canada has created significant demand for skilled health care assistants, and this is expected to continue for years to come.

In fact, according to the Working in Canada Report: Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates (NOC 3413), there will be more job openings for health care assistants than there will be trained professionals to fill them. 

2. You Can Find Fulfillment After Health Care Assistant Training

If you’re the kind of person that wants to make a difference with their work, becoming a health care assistant will provide you with the rewarding career you’re looking for. 

As a health care assistant, you have the opportunity to provide a positive quality of life for those who can’t fully care for themselves – what could be more fulfilling than that? In addition, you’ll likely get to work with some of the same clients for multiple years, thereby building meaningful relationships that can feel more like friendships. You also get to be part of a team of like-minded individuals who are committed to caring for others. 

3. HCA Training Offers a Stepping Stone to New Career Opportunities

There are plenty of reasons why the decision to become a health care assistant is a great choice, but if you’re the kind of person that continuously wants to challenge themselves, you’ll be happy to know that this career path also opens up plenty of other exciting opportunities in the healthcare industry. 

Obtaining health care assistant certification and gaining experience in the industry can help you gain the expertise needed to explore different careers later down the line. Some health care workers have pursued parallel careers as therapists and recreational aides, while others have become licensed practical nurses after working as health care assistants.

Interested in health care assistant training?

Contact Discover Community College to learn more!