Local vocational centre tackles Quebec’s healthcare worker shortage
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In response to Quebec’s escalating shortage of healthcare workers, the Lennoxville Vocational Training Centre (LVTC) is implementing innovative training programs to bolster the province’s healthcare workforce. Director Diane Lavers detailed these initiatives in a recent interview, highlighting LVTC’s commitment to addressing the pressing need for qualified healthcare professionals.
A growing crisis in healthcare staffing
Quebec’s healthcare system is grappling with a severe shortage of nurses and support staff. According to a report by the Montreal Economic Institute, the province is facing a deficit of 4,000 nurses, with projections indicating that this shortage could escalate to 28,000 by 2026. The issue is further compounded by a significant exodus of young nurses. Montreal CityNews reports that for every 100 new nurses entering the profession, approximately 43 leave before reaching the age of 35. Contributing factors include challenging working conditions, heavy workloads, and emotional strain.
LVTC’s proactive training programs
To combat this crisis, LVTC has launched several targeted programs aimed at training and retaining healthcare workers. One notable initiative is the PAB-FAMT project (Préposés aux Bénéficiaires – Formation Accrue en Milieu de Travail), developed in collaboration with the Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Estrie – Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke (CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS) and regional school boards. This program offers simultaneous employment and training for individuals pursuing careers as préposés aux bénéficiaires (PABs) or caregivers.
“They would hire the person, then if there’s Lennoxville that gives the course, the Institutional and Home Care Assistance (ICA) course in English and in French, I’ll use bilingual,” Lavers explained. This approach allowed students to begin their training without waiting for large cohorts to form, facilitating continuous entry and individualized learning paths.
During the program’s tenure, LVTC trained over 90 students in Lennoxville and an additional 20 to 25 students at a satellite campus in Granby, established to serve the western sector. However, due to recent budget cuts, the PAB-FAMT project concluded, prompting LVTC to adapt its strategies.
Transition to new training models
In November 2024, the Ministry of Education suspended the ICA program, effective December 31, 2024. To continue supporting aspiring caregivers, the ministry introduced a new Skills Training Certificate (STC) program, leading to certification as a préposé aux bénéficiaires. This 705-hour training program includes a $12,000 bursary for eligible students. Currently, LVTC has enrolled over 20 students in this program, ensuring continued support for those entering the caregiving profession.
Expanding licensed practical nurse training
Recognizing the need for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), LVTC offers the Health, Assistance, and Nursing Care program, an 1,800-hour curriculum spanning approximately 18 months. According to LVTC’s website, this program prepares students to care for individuals who are sick, injured, convalescing, or disabled, under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. Training encompasses infection control, IV insertion, medication administration, and pediatric care.
To enhance accessibility, LVTC has individualized the LPN program, allowing new students to commence their studies monthly. The program employs a co-modal training approach, combining online theoretical instruction with in-person laboratory sessions twice weekly. This flexible model accommodates students’ diverse needs and schedules.
Collaborations and community partnerships
LVTC maintains strong partnerships with local healthcare institutions, including the Wales Home and Grace Village, providing students with practical experience in English-speaking community retirement homes. These collaborations ensure that LVTC’s training programs align with the specific needs of the community, preparing students for successful careers in various healthcare settings.
Additionally, LVTC is working closely with Champlain College to establish a bridge between the LPN program and the college’s registered nursing (RN) program. This pathway allows LPN graduates to receive recognition for their vocational training, facilitating a smoother transition to obtaining a college degree in nursing.
Commitment to bilingual education
Given the bilingual nature of the region, LVTC emphasizes the importance of language proficiency in both English and French. Before commencing their training, students undergo diagnostic tests to assess literacy in both languages. Based on the results, LVTC offers part-time language training in collaboration with the adult education sector, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to serve in diverse linguistic environments.
Looking ahead
Despite challenges such as budget constraints and program suspensions, LVTC remains steadfast in its mission to address Quebec’s healthcare worker shortage through adaptive and innovative training solutions. By fostering strong community partnerships, offering flexible learning models, and emphasizing bilingual education, LVTC continues to play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for the province.
For individuals interested in pursuing a career in healthcare through LVTC’s programs, more information is available on the AdmissionFP website or by contacting the centre directly at 819-563-5627.