Supporting internationally educated health care workers
Exploring the experiences of internationally educated health-care professionals to identify strategies that support successful transition into the Canadian workforce
Linda Sheiban Taucar, Centre for Health Care Research & Innovation
About the project
This research examined the experiences of internationally educated nursing and personal support worker students, graduates, educators and industry stakeholders. The project focused on understanding the factors that influence successful integration into the Canadian health-care system and workforce.
The challenge
Internationally educated health-care professionals bring valuable knowledge and experience, yet many face challenges when adapting to new workplace expectations, professional practices and organizational cultures. The project sought to identify opportunities to strengthen transition supports and improve workforce integration.
Approach
- Conducted interviews with internationally educated nursing and personal support worker students and graduates
- Gathered perspectives from faculty members, industry stakeholders and hiring managers
- Explored experiences related to education, onboarding and workplace integration
- Examined professional, organizational and policy-related barriers
- Identified opportunities to enhance support programs and resources
Results
- Identified key themes related to transition, workplace adaptation and professional integration
- Generated insights to inform onboarding and workforce support strategies
- Highlighted opportunities to strengthen educational and workplace resources
- Developed recommendations to support internationally educated health-care professionals
- Established a foundation for future research and program development
Why it matters
This research helps inform strategies that support internationally educated health-care professionals as they transition into Canadian practice. The findings support:
- Improved onboarding and workplace integration
- Enhanced workforce readiness and retention
- Stronger collaboration between educators and employers
- More effective support resources for internationally educated professionals
- Future research aimed at strengthening health-care workforce capacity