What training do you need to become a home care worker in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The home care industry in Newfoundland is growing rapidly due to a number of factors, including the provincial government’s Home First initiative. Home care can be a rewarding career for many, and with the demand for quality workers increasing every year, there’s always questions about certifications required to start a new career path.
To start, there are a number of conduct and medical clearances required – including a code of conduct background check and some immunizations.
But no training is necessary up front. While there are courses offered that help, especially with career development, home care companies provide in-house training.
Home care workers at Compassion Home Care are trained through a course selection designed by Registered Nurses with home care experience. There are also other optional classes that broaden the scope of services a worker can provide, meaning there’s a way to grow within the company.
Topics like dementia care and palliative care require more specific training and certification, and these topics will grow as demand grows. There’s also a Registered Nurse on staff in every office, meaning there’s an expert to help with training and advanced care. By having a more formal internal training system, it’s possible to cover more services in rural parts of Newfoundland and Labrador than are currently offered.
A home care career has many benefits besides: flexible hours, a sense of purpose, and connection with your community. It can even be a jumping off point for other roles in health care.