The demand for healthcare workers in Canada is expected to rise due to several important factors. Firstly, the aging population is a major driver, as a significant number of individuals requiring healthcare services are over 65 years old—a rapidly expanding demographic (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). The preference for "aging in place," supported by healthcare policies focusing on the cost-effectiveness of keeping individuals in their homes, contributes further to this demand. Changes in family structures, with fewer children and family members dispersing to different cities for work, add to the growing necessity for healthcare workers. Traditionally, children, especially daughters, played a role in caring for aging parents, but evolving societal dynamics have reduced the availability of informal caregivers (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). Conversely, the supply of healthcare workers faces challenges that may lead to a decrease. While the opportunity to make a meaningful difference motivates individuals to enter healthcare professions, various deterrents exist. These include low compensation, a lack of parity with comparable roles in hospital settings, and unequal benefits (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). Working conditions, particularly for home support workers (HSWs), can be demanding, encompassing issues such as aggressive clients, occupational injuries, and unsafe home environments. Factors like harassment, racism, and discrimination, especially for caregivers from different racial backgrounds than their clients, further impact the appeal and retention of healthcare workers (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). Governments can enhance the supply of healthcare workers by implementing strategic measures. Investing in education and training programs is crucial for attracting and developing a skilled workforce. Financial incentives, like competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, can address the challenge of low compensation (Hart College, 2023). Creating supportive working conditions, ensuring safety measures, and providing ongoing training and support are essential for retaining healthcare workers. Policies promoting diversity and inclusion within the profession can contribute to addressing challenges related to cultural differences and discrimination (Government of Canada, 2023). Employers also have a significant role in overcoming challenges associated with the supply of healthcare workers. Addressing issues like workload, occupational hazards, and unsafe environments is crucial for improving working conditions (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). Offering competitive compensation and benefits packages can make healthcare professions more appealing (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). Fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within the workplace is vital in addressing issues of harassment, racism, and discrimination. Additionally, employers can support career advancement by providing training, mentoring, and opportunities for healthcare workers to take on leadership and advanced practice roles (Belcourt & Podolsky, 2016). In summary, addressing the increasing demand for healthcare workers in Canada requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving government intervention and employer initiatives. The strategies outlined involve education, financial incentives, workplace improvements, and diversity promotion to ensure a strong and sustained healthcare workforce. REFERENCES: Belcourt, M., & Podolsky, M. (2016). Strategic Human Resources Planning (7th ed.). Nelson Education Ltd. Government of Canada. (2023, June 8). Canada is addressing current and emerging labour demands in health care. Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-socialdevelopment/news/2023/06/canada-is-addressing-current-and-emerging-labour-demandsin-health-care.html Hart College of Cardiac Sonography & Health Care Inc. (2023, September 18). The nursing shortage in Canada: Causes and potential solutions.https://hartcollege.ca/the-nursingshortage-in-canada-causes-and-potentialsolutions/#:~:text=Causes%20of%20the%20Nursing%20Shortage%20in%20canada&text =Aging%20population%20and%20increased%20demand,as%20they%20reach%20retire ment%20age.
