Ontario’s demand for nurses and personal support workers (PSWs) is expected to reach over 33,000 and 50,000 respectively by the year 2032, according to a recent document.
The document, released by the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA), highlights the growing need for healthcare professionals in the province. It predicts that the demand for nurses will increase by 17.5% and for PSWs by 28.5% in the next 12 years.
This projected increase in demand is attributed to several factors, including an aging population, a rise in chronic diseases, and an increase in the number of people with complex care needs. The document also notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the crucial role of nurses and PSWs in the healthcare system.
The ONA is calling on the provincial government to take immediate action to address this growing demand. They are urging the government to invest in recruitment and retention strategies, as well as provide better working conditions and competitive compensation for nurses and PSWs.
In response, the Ontario government has stated that they are committed to supporting the healthcare sector and have already taken steps to address the shortage of healthcare professionals. This includes investing in new nursing positions and increasing the number of PSWs in long-term care homes.
However, the ONA argues that more needs to be done to ensure that the healthcare system can meet the growing demand for nurses and PSWs. They are calling for a comprehensive and long-term plan to address this issue and ensure that Ontarians have access to quality healthcare.
In conclusion, the demand for nurses and PSWs in Ontario is expected to significantly increase in the coming years. The ONA is urging the government to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that the healthcare system can meet the needs of the growing population.
