Thirteen students have graduated from the health care support worker micro-credential program at University College of the North (UCN).
Offered in several northern communities through a partnership with the Northern Regional Health Authority (NRHA) and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, the health care support worker micro-credential program was designed by Red River College, which shared the curriculum with UCN and Assiniboine Community College. Graduates are equipped with the skills to support members of patient care teams with activities such as mobility, feeding and bathing, cleaning and maintenance of equipment as directed, stocking supplies and assisting with activities or observation of patients in need of constant care, including those who may wander.
“Taking the health care support worker training is my best opportunity to start working in the health care field,” said program graduate Kanwaljeet Gill in a UCN press release. “I am very grateful to UCN and hospital management staff for creating this short period training opportunity.”
Offering the program can help alleviate stresses on a health care system overburdened as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, said UCN Dean of Health Dr. Vicki Zeran.
“It’s important that UCN helps in any way possible during these trying times,” Zeran said.
CEO Helga Bryant said the NRHA looks forward to working with recent and future graduates at a time when their skills are greatly needed in northern communities.
“We are very fortunate that UCN was able to provide this timely, specific training,” Bryant said.
