There are several reasons to work as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) in Ontario. Stability of profession is high and the outlook for the next three years Ontario wide is excellent.
A rewarding career, Personal Support Worker helps the elderly, children, expecting mothers and people with disability to become more independent. But, like all careers, becoming a PSW has its own challenges. Here’s what you need to know before you invest time and money in training.
Pros of Becoming a PSW:
Less Time, More Opportunities: PSW Training Benefits
If you are planning to begin your healthcare career, it is an excellent choice. Program duration is usually under a year, which gives you a quick start.
At BizTech College you can get started in 6 months. We offer 100% clinical placements throughout Ontario. The program includes theoretical, practical and communication aspects. The unique ‘clinical readiness program’ emphasizes the job-readiness to qualify for long-term care facilities, hospitals and home care.
High Demand in Ontario: A Booming Field for PSWs
Despite the variation in pay, a plethora of jobs are available for personal support workers. An aging population, staff shortage, strong demand for elderly care are opening lots of job opportunities. After all, the highest paying psw jobs in Ontario increases its demand and making citizens life easy to survive.
This occupation gets a 3-star rating for demand, the highest rating at Government of Canada Job Bank Report – Trend Analysis.
Versatile Work Environments for PSWs
Personal Support Workers has many different work settings to choose from. Nursing homes, private home care, hospitals or private agencies. Working in varied settings offer greater exposure which helps you gain higher pay.
Career Advancement Opportunities
The greatest thing about PSW diploma is that you are ready to enter the workforce right out of college. Training help students develop basic nursing and social skills required for a variety of healthcare careers.
Some of the common career paths for Personal Support Workers include Registered Nurse, Registered Practical Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, or Pharmacy Assistant.
Fulfilling Job Satisfaction as a PSW
Personal support workers make a positive difference in the community. Personal Support Worker is different from other healthcare professionals; they work closely with patients in physical as well as emotional stress.
They make patient’s lives easier by helping with household chores, sharing meals, keeping families informed on patients health and most importantly, by providing companionship.
Flexibility in PSW Work: Tailoring Your Career
Many of them work with agencies, which allows them to pick shifts or work to their liking. You have the option to do for retirement living, private home care and hospitals.
The more shifts you pick, more experience and seniority you will gain.
Cons of Becoming a PSW:
Shift Variability and Pay Fluctuations
Many nursing home and hospitals don’t offer consistent work hours to PSWs. They might have to work in rotating shifts which leaves minimal scope for work-life balance.
Another issue personal support worker face is the pay. Some companies pay quite well – C$24 – C$29 per hour. New workers may have to start with a lower pay grade – C$16 – C$20 per hour.
Heavy Workload Challenges
The severe shortage for workers has led to an increase in the workload for already occupied Personal Support Worker. Busy schedules, more patients and less time to relax adds to the stress on the job.
Balancing Pros and Cons: Is PSW the Right Fit for You?
Pros of becoming a personal support worker outweigh cons! But, does this profession match your expectations and will help you advance your career? What should be your next steps?
Know more about training requirements by speaking with our admission expert. You will gain insight into the application process, class schedules, tuition fee and financial aid options.
We would love to talk to you and help you make the right career decision, contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it worth becoming a PSW in Ontario?
Becoming a Personal Support Worker in Ontario is worth considering due to the profession’s quick training, high demand, diverse work environments, and potential for immediate entry into the workforce.
What are the benefits of being a PSW?
Being a Personal Support Worker offers the benefits of a quick entry into the healthcare field, diverse career paths, job satisfaction through making a positive impact on patients’ lives, and flexibility in work schedules.
Is PSW a good career in Canada?
Yes, being a Personal Support Worker in Canada is a rewarding career choice given its high demand, relatively quick training, diverse work opportunities, and the positive impact on the community.
What is the highest salary for a PSW in Canada?
The highest salary for a Personal Support Worker in Canada can vary, but it generally ranges from $24 to $29 per hour depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer.
