Province adds training seats for nurse practitioners throughout B.C.
The Province of British Columbia announced the addition of 65 nurse practitioner training seats at UBC, UNBC, and UVic, aiming to strengthen the healthcare workforce across five regions. This expansion is supported by $4. 7 million in ongoing funding, increasing the total number of nurse practitioners in training to 165 annually. UBC relocated its new seats to Surrey to better serve students in the Fraser region. Minister of Health Josie Osborne highlighted the critical role of nurse practitioners in delivering community-based care without long waits.
The initiative also includes a recent 15-seat program at Thompson Rivers University and a post-degree stream at UVic for those with a master's in nursing. These programs are part of a broader strategy initiated in 2018 to enhance patient access to quality healthcare. The government aims to address gaps in underserved areas, including rural regions. This investment reflects a commitment to building a robust health workforce that meets the needs of British Columbians.