DAWSON CREEK – With more vacancies than qualified staff to fill them in the Peace region, the Peace River Regional District’s (PRRD) health care scholarships are lending a financial hand to people who want to become health care workers.
The PRRD’s health care scholarships make it easier for people to pursue studies in health care studies. Health care positions are secure, well paid and rewarding, but most positions require successful completion of a college or university program.
“Unfortunately, shortages of health care workers are a problem across this province. Our scholarships are intended to help address the critical shortage of health care workers this region faces,” says PRRD Chair Brad Sperling. “College and university program fees can be an obstacle for some people. These scholarships provide financial support to PRRD residents, wherever they live in the PRRD, who are looking to change careers and become health care workers, such as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. High school students who are considering careers in health care, but are concerned about costs, can apply too.”
Some PRRD health care scholarships are available to health care workers who are already qualified but wish to upgrade skills and qualify for more advanced positions.
“I appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the Peace River Regional District on the exciting opportunity provided by them to increase both the recruitment and the retention of health care professionals,” says Angela De Smit, Chief Operating Officer for Northern Health’s Northeast Region. “The ability to offer funds to support continuing education for Northern Health employees to change their careers as well as advance their knowledge and skills, is a key retention strategy for establishing a sustainable work force to provide health care services.”
Application deadlines vary. To learn more, and find out if you qualify to apply, go to prrd.bc.ca/scholarships.
