A recent report reveals that Ontario's nursing shortage has more than doubled in the past two years, from 6,000 in 2022 to an expected 13,200 by the end of this year. By 2027, the deficit is projected to reach 20,700, growing to 33,200 by 2032. This severe shortage threatens the province's healthcare system, which relies heavily on nurses.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is pushing for quicker recognition of internationally trained nurses' credentials to address this issue. The Job Bank has long warned about the increasing nurse shortage, predicting a significant gap despite efforts to boost immigration and recruitment.
Canada's Federal Skilled Worker program and Express Entry system have recently included nurse aides and orderlies to tackle the shortage. The Canadian Nurses Association stresses the urgent need for more healthcare workers to prevent extended wait times and emergency department shutdowns. Internationally educated nurses are encouraged to apply for permanent residence through various immigration programs, with steps to ensure their credentials meet Canadian standards.
