Ontario expands skin and wound care training for LTC staff

The Ontario government is investing $3.74 million in skin and wound care training programs for 1,100 long-term care home staff, giving residents faster, more convenient access to care, while reducing avoidable emergency department visits and hospital stays. The expanded program is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in public services, including ensuring more seniors get the right care in the right place.

“This investment in skin and wound care training will help staff provide faster, more effective support for long-term care residents, enhancing comfort and reducing unnecessary hospital visits,” MPP Billy Pang said. “It’s an important step by our government to ensure all residents receive the high-quality care they deserve.”

Earlier this year, Ontario announced $1 million in funding to Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) and Wounds Canada to deliver three education initiatives to train up to 400 long-term care staff. Building on the success of those programs, the government is now expanding funding to add a fourth training stream that will support up to 1,100 long-term care staff starting this winter through the following programs: Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) program for 150 diploma-trained registered nurses and practical nurses; PSW and Caregiver Skin Health course for 600 personal support workers; Accredited Wound Care Champion program for 150 regulated health professionals: and Skin Health Program for Personal Care Providers for 200 personal support workers.

Due to age, health conditions and chronic illnesses, long-term care residents are more susceptible to skin and wound issues.

The government says strengthening clinical skills in long-term care is key to improving quality of life for residents. Its plan to fix long-term care focuses on four pillars: staffing and care; quality and enforcement; building modern, safe and comfortable homes; and connecting seniors with faster, more convenient access to the services they need.

Seniors aged 65 and older remain the fastest-growing demographic in Ontario. To meet rising demand and reduce waitlists, the province is building 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds. Ontario is also offering incentives of up to $35,400 to PSW students and eligible PSWs to launch careers in long-term care homes and in the home and community care sector.