Looking for a rewarding career? Health care is a great choice!

Transcription

1 Looking for a rewarding career? Health care is a great choice! Working in the field of health care is a challenging and very rewarding career path. There are many professional choices available depending upon your interests the more familiar professions such as a nurse or doctor but also laboratory, diagnostic imaging (x-ray), physiotherapy and occupational therapy and many others. The Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA), along with its Cumberland County foundation partners, wants to encourage local students to consider health care as their field of study and we are eager to offer young people the opportunity to come back to their home area to live and work following their postsecondary education. In order to make the decision to enter the field of health care a little easier, and to help students with the cost of their education, the NSHA has teamed up with the county s health care foundations to establish the Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary Program. The program provides up to $5,000 for each year of study within the related health-care field, the option of summer employment while in the course of study and guaranteed a full-time position upon successful completion of studies. In return, students must sign a contract with the health authority for a return for service upon graduation equal to the number of years for which they receive a bursary. This means that a student who receives a bursary for four years will be expected to work for the health authority for four years following graduation. Students will be placed, at the discretion of the NSHA, where there is the greatest need for staff with their type of training and could be at any of the NSHA s Cumberland County facilities which are located in Advocate Harbour, Amherst, Parrsboro, Pugwash and Springhill. One of the main criteria for awarding bursaries in any particular year is the anticipated job vacancies at the time the student will graduate. Accordingly, this handbook highlights the health care professions that the NSHA sees as potential human resource needs in the coming years. This booklet gives an overview of the nature of the work and the earning potential upon graduation. It also provides information on education requirements and where the programs of study are offered. The data on universities/colleges is not a complete list of education options and we are not endorsing any particular program but simply wish to help you in your decision-making process. The information is, of course, subject to change and we suggest that you contact the education institutions directly or speak with your high school guidance counselor for more details. We ve also included a bursary application form. If you chose to pursue a career in health care, we encourage you to apply for a Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary. If one of the careers in this handbook sounds interesting and you would like the opportunity to learn more or perhaps job shadow a professional for a day, please contact our Communications/Public Relations Department at or the Human Resources Department at extension They would be pleased to hear from you. Best of luck with all your future endeavours! Nova Scotia Health Authority

2 Cardiology Technologists (ECG Tech) Cardiology Technologists (ECG Tech) have the skills to operate electronic diagnostic equipment to record cardiac activity that aids in the treatment and diagnosis of heart disease. ECG Techs are involved in the performance of vital cardiac testing utilizing a wide range of sophisticated medical equipment essential for providing the cardiologist with valuable diagnostic information. Cardiology is a fast-paced discipline. Manual dexterity and good coordination are necessary. You must be able to deal with people in a mature, tactful and professional way. You should also be comfortable working with instruments, apparatus and technology. Cardiology Technologists require the completion of a two-year college diploma in cardiology technology and a period of supervised practical training. To be certified, technologists must successfully complete the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologists national exams. For additional information please visit BC Institute of Technology 3700 Willingdon Avenue Burnaby BC V5G 3H , ext Mohawk College of Applied Art & Technology PO Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 Telephone: CDI College 2 Bloor Street West Cumberland Terrace Toronto, ON M4W 3E2 Telephone: ECG Salary Scales ECG Tech II $48,963 - $52,586 ECH Tech I $40,003 - $44,702 2

3 Laboratory Services Medical laboratory technologists may collect blood and other samples from patients. They conduct laboratory tests, experiments and analyses to assist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of illness and disease. Activities may include conducting chemical analysis of blood, urine, and other body fluids; performing blood group, type and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes. Medical laboratory assistants may collect blood and other samples from patients, log patient samples and prepare them for testing. They also conduct routine medical laboratory tests and set up, clean and maintain medical laboratory equipment under the supervision of a technologist. This work demands close attention to detail. You must have good manual dexterity and be comfortable working with instruments and technology. Good communication skills and the ability to cooperate with others are important. You should be responsible, dependable and willing to keep pace with rapid developments in the field. Medical laboratory technologists need a two to three year program in Medical Laboratory Technology and a period of supervised, relevant work experience or a Medical Laboratory Science Degree. To be certified, technologists must successfully complete the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science national exams and be licensed by the Nova Scotia College of Medical Laboratory Technologists. More information at or Medical Laboratory Technologists The Nova Scotia Community College has an agreement with the New Brunswick Community College to guarantee seats for Nova Scotia residents in the 89-week Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma program at its Saint John Campus. You must apply through the NSCC Institute of Technology. Nova Scotia Community College Dartmouth Waterfront Campus 80 Mawiomi Place Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5 Telephone: New Brunswick Community College PO Box 2270 Saint John NB E2L 3V1 Telephone: Dalhousie University in partnership with the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a four year Bachelor of Health Science degree. The program has a two year specialty stream in Medical Laboratory Technology (post diploma only) and a four year Bachelor in Diagnostic Cytology, with a diploma option after three years of study. 3

4 QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences Bethune Building, Office Tower Road Halifax NS B3H 2Y9 Telephone: Medical Laboratory Assistants The Nova Scotia Community College offers a Medical Laboratory Assistant program however it is not part of their regular program/course curriculum. Please contact the NSCC to confirm when and where this program is being offered. Courses are also offered at some business colleges although confirmation should be sought on the course s recognition in Nova Scotia. NSCC Waterfront Campus 80 Mawiomi Place Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5 Telephone: (toll-free) Medical Laboratory Technologist Salary Scale 2015 $52,591 - $64,032 Medical Laboratory Assistant Salary Scale $39,548 - $44,801 4

5 Licensed Practical Nurses Licensed Practical Nurses provide physical and supportive care to patients of all ages within a stabilized nursing situation. They may work independently or under the direction of a registered nurse depending on the level of care and observation required. The LPN is able to recognize deviations from normal and is able to determine when to report changes in patient conditions and environment. The practical nurse performs duties involving basic knowledge, skills and judgment required to participate in the nursing process. Individuals entering this profession should enjoy caring for people of all ages. Good communication skills and interpersonal skills are also very important. Physical demands include moving and lifting others as well as spending long periods of time on one s feet. LPN s must be able to cope with stress and occasional emergency situations. Licensed practical nurses must complete an approved practical nursing program. Licensed practical nurses must also successfully complete the national examinations and be licensed with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia before they can practice. For more information visit The Nova Scotia Community Colleges offers a 24-month practical nursing diploma program at various campuses in Nova Scotia. The New Brunswick Community College offers a 24-month practical nursing diploma program at its Moncton Campus. NSCC Waterfront Campus 80 Mawiomi Place Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5 Telephone: (toll-free) NSCC Cumberland Campus Community Learning Center 147 Albion Street South Amherst, Nova Scotia B4H 2X2 Phone: (902) New Brunswick Community College Moncton Campus 1234 Mountain Road Moncton NB E1C 8H9 Telephone: Licensed Practical Nurse Salary Scale $ 46,004 - $49,408 5

6 Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapists assist people with physical and mental disabilities in maintaining or regaining their maximum level of independence in day-to-day activities. Work may include assessing a client s current and potential level of functioning; developing and implementing a treatment plan in the client s various environments; maintaining clinical and statistical records; designing programs for the community; and, conducting research. Occupational therapists work collaboratively with clients, including individuals, groups, agencies or organizations, to enable them to choose, organize and perform those occupations they find useful and meaningful in their environments. To work in occupational therapy, you must have a genuine and sensitive interest in people and their ability to achieve. You must be able to communicate effectively with people and demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, good judgment, patience and self-discipline. Occupational therapists must be creative and unique in their approach to each client. There is an ongoing need to continually update knowledge and skills. Occupational Therapists need a university degree in occupational therapy and a period of supervised practical training. To be a qualified occupational therapist, you must successfully complete the national examination for occupational therapists and be licensed to practice in Nova Scotia by the College of Occupational Therapists of Nova Scotia. There is also mandatory membership in the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the Nova Scotia Society of Occupational Therapists. For additional information please visit & Dalhousie University 5869 University Avenue Forrest Building, Room 215 Halifax NS B3H 3J5 Telephone: Occupational Therapist Salary Scale $57,938 - $73,162 6

7 Pharmacy Services Pharmacists supervise the compounding and dispensing of prescribed medicines; check prescriptions for the proper dosages; maintain registries of poisons and narcotics; maintain medication profiles of clients and have responsibility for ensuring that prescriptions are appropriate for each client. They also advise healthcare professionals on the proper selection and use of medicines. Pharmacy Technicians provides technical assistance to the pharmacist. That technical assistance is comprised of such duties as packaging prescriptions, maintaining ward stock drug supplies, manufacturing (pre-packaging and compounding) and preparation of both sterile and non-sterile pharmaceuticals as well as computerized input to the patient profiles. To work in this field, you should have an interest in chemistry and an aptitude for detail, precision and accuracy. Communication and interpersonal skills are essential. You must be patient and able to deal with people in a mature, tactful and responsible way. Computer skills are also important. Pharmacists need a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy and a period of supervised, practical training or apprenticeship. Supervisory, management and problem-solving skills are necessary. Pharmacists must also successfully complete the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada examinations and be licensed with the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists before they can practice. For additional information please visit Pharmacist - Dalhousie University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. Dalhousie University Henry Hicks Academic Administration Building, Room 133 Halifax NS B3H 4H6 Telephone: Pharmacy Technician Programs are available at a number of colleges throughout the Maritimes. Nova Scotia Community College offers a thirty-seven (37) week certificate program in Pharmacy Technology at their Institute of Technology Campus (Halifax). Nova Scotia Community College, Institute of Technology 5685 Leeds Street, PO Box 2210 Halifax, NS B3J 3C4 Telephone:

8 Success College Admissions Office 800 Sackville Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia B4E 1R8 Telephone: Compu College (Eastern College) Halifax Campus 1526 Dresden Row, 3rd floor Halifax, NS B3J 3K3 Telephone: Moncton Campus 1070 St. George Blvd. Moncton, NB E1E 4K7 Telephone: Pharmacist Salary Scale 2015 $74,496 - $90,808 Pharmacy Technician Salary Scale 2015 $39,548 - $44,801 8

9 Physiotherapy Physiotherapists understand how the body moves, what keeps it from moving well and how to restore mobility. Working as part of a health-care team or independently, physiotherapists strive to improve the health and mobility of their patients. They can also advise on ways to prevent health problems from occurring before they arise. Physiotherapists assess patients to determine a physical diagnosis then plan and implement treatment programs to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning and alleviate pain. They assess patients physical abilities, plan programs of physiotherapy including therapeutic exercise, manipulations, electrotherapy, acupuncture, massage and hydrotherapy, maintain clinical and statistical records and develop health promotion programs. To work in this field you should have an interest in health and in caring for the special needs of people. Ingenuity, initiative and imagination are needed to adapt activities to individual needs. You should be patient, self-disciplined and resourceful. The ability to inspire confidence and to motivate clients is important. A strong sense of responsibility, good judgment and communication skills are also necessary. Physical stamina may be necessary. There is an ongoing need to continually update knowledge and skills. Physiotherapists require a university degree in physiotherapy and a minimum of six months supervised clinical placements. Physiotherapists must be licensed by the Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists and must have passed the Physiotherapy National Exam (both written & practical) to practice in Nova Scotia. For additional information please visit or Dalhousie University offers the only accredited physiotherapy educational program in the Atlantic Region. The Dalhousie School of Physiotherapy offers a 27 month Master s Entry-Level Program (effective 2006). This is a post-graduate program and enrollment is limited. Dalhousie University 5869 University Avenue Forrest Building, Fourth Floor Halifax NS B3H 3J5 Telephone: Fax: Physiotherapist Salary Scale $57,938 - $73,162 9

10 Radiology Technology Radiology Technologists are health care professionals who utilize radiation to produce images (xrays) of patient s anatomical structures. The quality of the image is critical as it will assist the physician in the diagnosis or treatment of the disease or injury. The Radiology Technologist is knowledgeable and skilled in a wide variety of procedures as all body systems are imaged. Responsibilities include positioning the patient for radiological procedures, choice and use of appropriate equipment, image manipulation, selection of radiation exposure factors, implementation of radiation protection techniques and critique of the radiograph. This work demands skill with your hands, accuracy and close attention to detail. A strong sense of responsibility is important as your results can affect a diagnosis. You must also be comfortable working with technology and be able to keep up with new advances in the field. Radiology Technologists need to complete a four year degree program in Radiology Technology and a period of supervised relevant work experience. For additional information please visit To be a certified technologist you must successfully complete the Canadian Society of Medical Radiation Technologist national exam. To practice in Nova Scotia, radiology technologists must also be registered with the Nova Scotia Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. Dalhousie University in partnership with Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a fouryear Bachelor s degree program in Health Science in Radiological Technology. QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences Office 640, Bethune Building 1278 Tower Road Halifax, NS B3H 2Y9 Telephone: CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Once you have achieved the credential for a registered radiology technologist, with additional training and education you can enrich your career to become a CAT or MRI technician. CAT Scan Technician: The CT Tech uses a computerized avail tomography scan which is an x-ray procedure which combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate crosssectional views and if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. A CAT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures for helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist: MRI Techs use magnetism radio waves and computers to acquire medical images. MRIs are used for studying the cardiovascular system, studying body chemistry and imagining soft tissues. The CHA does not have an MRI and therefore does not offer bursaries to support this specific type of advanced education. Radiology Tech Salary Scale 2015 CT Scan Technologist Salary Scale $52,591 - $64,032 $58,407 - $68,161 10

11 Registered Nurses Registered Nurses provide professional services to patients to promote, maintain, and restore health and assist in the management of illness, injury or infirmity. The provision of nursing services involves a variety of roles for nurses, include direct care provider, health teacher, consultant, and administrator. Registered nurses may specialize in nursing practice areas such as the operating room, obstetrics, mental health, palliative care, emergency or critical care, pediatrics, geriatrics, community and occupational health, rehabilitation or oncology. Registered nurses in management positions coordinate the activities of other registered nurses and nursing support personnel to facilitate the provision of safe, effective, competent patient care. They ensure that administrative procedures are followed, develop policies, develop and administer budgets and assist in the hiring and performance review of nursing personnel. Registered nurses must complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and receive a pass mark on the licensing exam. Registered nurses must also be licensed with the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia before they can practice. For information visit The following universities offer a four-year Bachelor of Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing program: Dalhousie University St. Francis Xavier University University College of Cape Breton University of New Brunswick Dalhousie University University of New Brunswick School of Nursing P. O. Box 4400 Henry Hicks Academic Administration Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3 Building, Room 133 Telephone: Halifax NS B3H 4H6 Telephone: (902) St Francis Xavier University Applications Admissions Officer PO Box 5000, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5 Telephone: (902) University of Cape Breton Admission Student Service Center PO Box 5300, Sydney, NS B1P 6L2 Registered Nurse Scale 2015 $64,046 - $75,458 11

12 Respiratory Therapy Respiratory Therapists are health professionals who assist in the diagnosis, treatment and health promotion of patients with cardio-respiratory disorders through therapeutic means. They also perform respiratory assessments of patients, tests and monitors cardio-pulmonary function. You need to have good judgment, a strong sense of reliability and excellent interpersonal skills to work in a health care environment. You need the ability to maintain composure in critical medical situations. Respiratory therapists require a three year program in respiratory therapy and a period of supervised, relevant work experience or a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree in respiratory therapy. To be certified, therapists must successfully complete the National Registry Examination governed by the Canadian Board of Respiratory Care and be licensed with the Canadian and Nova Scotia Society of Respiratory Therapists. For more information visit QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences 6 th Bethune Building 1278 Tower Road Halifax NS B3H 6A3 Telephone: New Brunswick Community College PO Box 2270 Saint John NB E2L 3V1 Telephone: Respiratory Therapist Salary Scale $50,587 - $69,346 12

13 Ultrasound Technology Ultrasound Technologists (Diagnostic Sonographer) utilize high frequency sound waves, specialized equipment and other diagnostic techniques to collect detailed information on anatomical, physiological and pathological state of the patient. This health care professional is able to produce and evaluate ultrasound images and related data that are used by specialized physicians to render a medical diagnosis. Sonographers typically provide technical expertise in abdomen, superficial structures, obstetrics / gynecology, vascular and cardiac applications. This work demands skill with your hands, accuracy and close attention to details. You should be efficient yet sensitive to patients needs. Integrity and a strong sense of responsibility are important, as your results may affect a diagnosis. You must also be comfortable working with technology and be able to keep up with new advances in the field. Ultrasound Technologists need to complete a four year degree program in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Technology and a period of supervised, relevant work experience. To be a certified technologist you must successfully complete the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) ultrasound certification examinations. For more information, visit and/or Dalhousie University in partnership with Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a fouryear Bachelor s degree program in Health Science in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Technology. QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences Bethune Building 1278 Tower Road Halifax NS B3H 2Y9 Telephone: CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Once you have achieved the credential for a registered radiology technologist, with additional training and education you can enrich your career to become: Echo-cardiology Technician: The echo technologist uses ultrasound waves to create an image of the heart muscle. Ultrasound waves that rebound or echo off the heart can show the size, shape and movement of the heart s valves and chambers as well as the flow of blood through the heart. Echocardiography may show such abnormalities as poorly functioning heart valves or damage the heart tissue from a past heart attack. Ultrasound Technologists / Echo-cardiology Technician Salary Scales $58,407 - $68,161 13

14 Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary Program c/o Nova Scotia Health Authority 34 Prince Arthur Street Amherst, NS B4H 1V6 APPLICATION FORM 2015 Application Deadline: Friday, May 29 th, 2015 Name: Home Address: Address: Program Type: Institution: If applicable and known, School Year Mailing Address: Home Phone Number: Year of Study You Are Entering: Total Length of Program: School Year Phone Number: Upon graduation, those who are successful in receiving a bursary will be placed at the facility where there is an identified need for staff with their specific training. This includes sites in Advocate Harbour, Amherst, Parrsboro, Pugwash and Springhill. You MUST signify your understanding and commitment to work at any of the Nova Scotia Health Authority s Cumberland County area facilities? Yes No If you are successful in receiving a bursary, are you willing to participate in promotional activities to aid in recruiting future candidates? Yes No This application MUST include the following information: Resume Official transcript from high school or post-secondary institution Proof of acceptance into the program of study if a new student Three letters of reference, not from family members, in support of your participation in the program A 750 word essay explaining why you chose this career path and how you believe your selection to receive a bursary would benefit the Nova Scotia Health Authority as well as the community following your graduation. You should also clearly state an understanding that your placement upon graduation is at the discretion of the Nova Scotia Health Authority and could be at any of its facilities located across the district. 14

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