Canada remains committed to bolstering its workforce by attracting skilled healthcare professionals to address ongoing shortages. In addition to the federal government’s efforts, several provinces have introduced financial incentives to lure healthcare workers, ranging from tuition rebates to licensure reimbursements. Below is an overview of the incentives offered by key provinces:
Manitoba (MB)
Manitoba’s Health Human Resource Action Plan, launched in November 2022, aims to attract and retain 2,000 healthcare providers across the province. Among the latest incentives introduced are:
- Wellness Incentive: Full-time employees receive a one-time increase of $500 in their Health Spending Accounts, while part-time employees are eligible for $250.
- Licensure Reimbursement: Manitoba will reimburse eligible employees for professional license and association membership fees for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 licensure years.
- Weekend Premium: Employees working on eligible weekends can receive an $8.00 premium, retroactive to November 2022.
These are just a few of the incentives available under this program.
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL)
Newfoundland and Labrador offers healthcare professionals a variety of incentives through initiatives like the “Come Home Initiative.” The province provides financial rewards to those with prior ties to NL, such as:
- $100,000 for a five-year return-in-service agreement for Physicians
- $60,000 for a three-year agreement for Nurse Practitioners
- $50,000 for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Primary Care Paramedics, and Clinical Pharmacists
For healthcare professionals without prior connections to the province, different financial incentives are available.
Prince Edward Island (PEI)
PEI has boosted its Allied Health Professional Recruitment Incentive. Eligible healthcare professionals in 11 occupations can receive up to $10,000 in exchange for committing to a one-year full-time equivalent (1,950 working hours) return-in-service agreement. This program applies to professionals such as Medical Laboratory Technologists, Respiratory Therapists, Pharmacists, and more.
Each province offers unique programs to attract healthcare workers, ensuring their medical systems remain robust amidst the growing demand for services.