A recent report has found that continuing care assistants in Saskatchewan earn the lowest wages in the country, raising alarms about recruitment and retention in the healthcare sector. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) highlighted the findings, noting that low pay contributes to staffing shortages and affects the quality of care for vulnerable residents.
Wage disparity across provinces
The report compares wages for continuing care assistants across all provinces, showing Saskatchewan at the bottom. In contrast, Alberta and British Columbia offer significantly higher pay, attracting workers away from Saskatchewan. CUPE representatives argue that the provincial government must address this disparity to ensure adequate staffing in long-term care facilities.
Impact on care quality
Low wages lead to high turnover rates, which disrupt continuity of care for residents. Many care assistants work multiple jobs to make ends meet, leading to burnout and reduced quality of service. The union is calling for immediate wage increases and better working conditions.
The Saskatchewan government has acknowledged the issue but has not yet committed to specific changes. Meanwhile, healthcare advocates urge action to prevent a worsening crisis in the province's continuing care system.
