New programs, internationally trained nurses and career fairs are part of Southlake Regional Health Centre's strategy aimed at recruiting and retaining staff to help it build a strong post-pandemic workforce.
Like many hospitals across the province, Southlake has faced significant staffing challenges. Nursing shortages that already existed have been exacerbated by the pandemic, as well as by the aging demographics of health-care workers, according to a news release.
A number of programs and career fairs are being offered in an effort to address the staffing pressures.
The Allied Health Fair takes place Feb. 24 for individuals interested in physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology roles.
A career fair for full and part-time RN and RPN jobs in departments throughout the Newmarket hospital are to take place March 9 and 10.
Both job fairs will be held virtually.
Southlake is expanding its comprehensive specialty training program for critical care and surgery, which supports nurses to build their career through side-by-side education, training and support, the news release stated.
Full and part-time opportunities in CVICU, Coronary Intensive Care Unit and Critical Care, are available through the critical care sponsorship course. The hospital has teamed up with a community college to offer the course.
Southlake is a participant of HealthForceOntario’s nursing graduate guarantee program for newly registered RNs, RPNs and internationally educated nurses.
An extended orientation is provided at Southlake to support new nurses transitioning into practice. At the completion of the program, nurses are offered full-time positions at Southlake, according to the hospital.
“Southlake offers an exciting and meaningful career in health care, and we strive to recruit amazing people who live our values,” said Erin Silverman, manager of talent at Southlake.
“Our new grad programs, internships and sponsorships are just some examples of the programs we offer. We are leading the industry with flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, benefits and culture. Whether you are a nurse, transporter, physiotherapist, clerical staff or communications specialist, Southlake is a fantastic place to grow your career.”
Nicole Callahan, an RN who began in cardiac surgery before moving to the CVICU, has worked in all the critical care areas of the hospital over the past year and said she has enjoyed the chance to see a little bit of everything.
“I love all of it. I especially love to help people recover, see them go home to their families and do well.”
