The Government of Saskatchewan announced that it is developing a second phase of improvements to its pathway for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs).
By September, Saskatchewan will be ready to implement a second series of improvements for IENs, including:
- A shorter bridging program that will build on an applicant’s existing knowledge but also provide solid grounding and orientation to the Saskatchewan healthcare system, reducing the transition process from approximately one year to 14 weeks;
Improvements will also see an applicant-focused approach, including:
- language training supports to ensure this foundational requirement is met through online materials and workshops;
- an expansion of options to establish language proficiency;
- employer orientation specific to the facility and location;
- access to clinical support that will have experienced professionals available to provide support to new employees;
- settlement assistance in collaboration with community groups; and
- customized support through navigators.
Successful applicants will also see costs covered for language and education assessments, bridging and/or training fees, fees related to professional exams and registration, and other costs incurred while training, such as travel for clinical placement.
Costs for international recruits, including transportation, accommodation and other settlement-related costs, such as immigration fees, will also be covered.
“Our made-in-Saskatchewan approach ensures our province will continue to lead the nation as one of the fastest, most supportive and most efficient places for internationally educated nurses to become licensed and gain employment in health care,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “By focusing on a safe, balanced approach to licensing and integration into the workplace, as well as providing robust settlement supports, Saskatchewan will continue to be a preferred destination for health care workers from around the world.”
Currently, 53 IENs from the Philippines and 9 IENs residing in Saskatchewan are in the bridging program. Nineteen Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) and two Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) from the Philippines have already arrived in the province.