Over 550 new post-secondary training seats are being added to help fill the need for more health care workers in Saskatchewan. The province has announced an initial investment of more than $5.5-million to create these seats over 18 health care training programs, as part of the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan.

This will increase training capacity in the province, and through this funding, additional training seats will be reserved for Saskatchewan students in highly specialized programs in other provinces including Respiratory Therapy, MRI Technology and Occupational Therapy. The expansion begins next fall for training seats in programs like Medical Laboratory Assistant, Primary Care Paramedic and Licensed Practical Nurse.

A news release from the province says this expansion builds on a previous investment to add 150 nursing seats. There are also financial aid options including loans, grants, bursaries and scholarships and the Graduate Retention Program provides up to $20,000 in tax credits for those who stay in the province after graduation. As well, a new public awareness campaign will help bring awareness for students on what training is available and what financial supports there may be.

The Health Human Resources Action Plan is expected to add more than 1,000 workers into the health system over the next few years. The $5.5-million will help post-secondary institutions prepare to hire faculty, purchase equipment and recruit students for the expansion this fall.