Are you passionate about helping and caring for others? Do you want to make a career out of that passion? And do you think becoming a Health Care Assistant (HCA) is your perfect career option? If yes, then you are in the right place. This article is a step-by-step guide on how to earn a diploma as a Health Care Assistant in Canada.
Step 1
Before enrolling in a program, you must realize your career goals. Understand who you are, what you like, and what you want to do.
Step 2
Once you are clear with your career goals, find an HCA program that provides the knowledge and skills required to work as a frontline caregiver in various community and care facility settings.
The Health Care Assistant Program at Western Community College prepares you to work in various settings and offer the necessary help and care to people in need.
Step 3
Once you find a suitable program, register for the program. Ensure you have all the documents required for registration. You can register for the HCA program at WCC.
Step 4
Applying for a scholarship is never a bad idea. Apply for a scholarship; you may get one.
At WCC, we provide several financial assistance options, including scholarships, in-house financing, BC student loan, etc., so that you may concentrate more on your studies and less on money worries.
Step 5
Complete your studies – You have the flexibility to pursue the HCA program at WCC either full-time or part-time, according to your preferences. If you opt for the full-time program, you can complete your diploma in less than six months. The part-time program spans 9 months.
Step 6
After completing your program you should have the skills and hands-on experience to be a safe and competent HCA. You must ensure that you are well-prepared for a range of circumstances and predicaments that may arise while you are on the job.
Step 7
When you complete your studies, you need to get registered with the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry.
The BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry evaluate and accredit Health Care Assistant Programs in British Columbia. They verify that the programs:
- adhere to the provincial curriculum,
- apply a standardized set of training requirements,
- and graduate competent frontline health care professionals.
To get registered as a Health Care Assistant in British Columbia, you must finish an accredited Health Care Assistant Program.
The HCA program at WCC is completely recognized by the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry; thus, graduates of our HCA Program are eligible for registration.
Step 8
Once registered with the BC Care Aide Community and Health Worker Registry, you are officially a Health Care Assistant. Congratulations! You may now start applying for jobs.
Western Community College provides the knowledge and skills to keep you ahead of market demands. To pursue the HCA program at WCC, contact one of our student advisors.
