Stethoscope on a clipboard. (Canva)
DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Dawson Creek city council has voted in favour of a resolution to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) calling on the BC government to expedite the credentialing process for international health care workers.
A report to parliament said the state is facing a shortage of health care workers and that foreign residents have the skills to meet the demand.
“It is important that the UBCM urges the Ministry of Higher Education and Future Skills to expedite the certification process for internationally trained health workers, doctors and nurses,” the report said.
The report said there are people who are trained, educated and experienced health professionals but are unable to access the health system due to eligibility and financial barriers.
“The state should provide assistance to ease the financial burden of the costs associated with integrating into the health care system.”
Councillor Charlie Parslow said foreign workers were well trained but did not speak fluent English and needed further training.
“The real challenge for them is being understood, and that's a barrier,” Parslow said.
Councilman Kyle MacDonald first tabled the memo about the accreditation and financial obstacles facing international medical professionals at the May 27 City Council meeting.
Staff were then authorized to draft a UBCM resolution calling on the state to remove the barriers.
Councillor Jerimie Earl said he expects more municipalities to introduce similar motions because the health care worker shortage is a province-wide issue.
“I don't think our municipality is alone in bringing a motion like this. This is an ongoing issue that is being observed across the state,” Earl said.
You can read the full report here:
