American CNA finding work as an RCA in British Columbia

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Hello, I am a dual citizen of US/Canada. Last year I received my CNA training in the US. It lasted around six weeks. Afterward, I got a job in a long term care facility, where I worked for 10 months until I recently moved back to Canada, BC specifically.

I've tried applying to various nursing homes but I can't seem to get a clear answer on whether or not I'm qualified to work in BC as a Residential Care Aide (or Health Care Aide... they're called so many different names, lol). A few people said that it didn't matter because RCAs aren't licensed. Others have said that my training wasn't sufficient because it only lasted six weeks, whereas the course up here lasts six months.

Many job postings I've seen have said "must have completed RCA course or equivalent." But nobody seems to know what counts as "equivalent". I would like to think that my CNA training PLUS the 10 months of experience would count as equivalent.

SO my question is, has anyone moved up to Canada and gotten a job at a nursing home with their CNA training/experience? Or do you know anyone who has done something similar? I really don't want to have to attend a six month long course to learn the same stuff I already know, if I don't have to.

Hi there:

I think the program I did might help you. I found out that the main employers want you to have BC certification before they will employ you.

I came to Vancouver from another province where I was a CNA. I had a terrible time finding a job. All I got offered were poorly paid positions. I found out about a challenge program called Health Skills Connect that is run by Drake Medox College in Vancouver.

Basically it involved a series of exams and a practicum. I passed both of those and qualified for my RCA diploma. I got a job in a facility within a couple of weeks of completing this.

It was pretty reasonable and quick and there were options for me to attend classes if I needed to.

It saved me. I was getting really desperate for work.

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