Job vacancies in Canada’s healthcare sector reached a record high of 96,200 in the fourth quarter of 2022, with registered
nurses (RNs), registered psychiatric nurses, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates accounting for 69 percent of total vacancies.1 RN and LPN job postings have increased by 21-22 percent year over
year,2 representing an increase of 220 percent over the past five years. As a result of acute labour shortages, excessive workloads, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and toxic work environments, over half of nurses across Canada indicate they plan to leave their jobs within the next year, with 19 percent planning to exit the profession entirely. 4 Regulated nurses represent half of the healthcare workforce, meaning the consequences of labour shortages are dire. 5 Concurrent with the crisis in nursing is an accelerated demand for healthcare services amidst Canada’s aging demographic. According to the 2021
census, the 65+ age category is growing six times faster than the children under 15 years cohort and now accounts for
22 percent of the population.6 Sustained pressure on Canada’s healthcare and home care sectors is anticipated as the 65+
cohort is expected to represent 25 percent of the population by 2051.7 Demographic shifts must also shape the content and
delivery of healthcare. In Canada, 23 percent of the population was born outside Canada, and in Toronto, 47 percent
of the population are immigrants. 8 As a public good, health policy and delivery must represent and respond to the diverse
needs, interests and expectations of the people it serves.
