There are several reasons to work as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) in Ontario. Stability of profession is high for PSWs, and the outlook for the next three years Ontario wide is excellent.
A rewarding career, PSW 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 Investment in Training
If you are planning to begin your healthcare career, PSW 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.
Increasing Demand in Ontario
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 for PSWs.
This occupation gets a 3-star rating for demand, the highest rating at Government of Canada Job Bank Report – Trend Analysis.
Wide Range of Work Environments
PSW 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 PSWs include Registered Nurse, Registered Practical Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, or Pharmacy Assistant.
Job Satisfaction
Personal support workers make a positive difference in the community. PSW 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
Many PSW 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 Work and Varying Pay
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
The severe shortage for workers has led to an increase in the workload for already occupied PSW. Busy schedules, more patients and less time to relax adds to the stress on the job.
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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!
