Employment outlook remains good for Licensed Practical Nurses in BC

According to the Government of Canada's Job Market Report, employment prospects for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are classified as good throughout all of British Columbia. Nearly half of all LPNs practicing in BC are employed in the Lower Mainland Southwest region with the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority and the Fraser Valley Heath Authority being two of the largest employers.  The Northern Health Authority is the largest employer of practical nurses in BC’s Northern Regions.  LPNs that practice in the underserved northern communities may be eligible to apply for a reduction of their BC Student Loans through the British Columbia Loan Forgiveness program.

Employment opportunities throughout the province will be driven by the need to provide healthcare services to BC’s growing and aging population, in addition to health regions finding operational efficiencies within the medical system. Like many employment sectors, the aging workforce is creating openings as LPNs retire.

Employment is almost evenly split between the hospital and the nursing home/long-term care sectors. However, opportunities are expected to increase for nurses interested in working in emergency care, operating and recovery rooms.