NUPGE Abacus Survey: New data reveals Canadian health care system and workers in crisis

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This report is based on responses from 6,416 NUPGE members, gathered between November 22 and December 16, 2024. Participants included members from 12 NUPGE components: BCGEU, HSAA, HSABC, HSAS, MAHCP, MGEU, NBU, NAPE, NSGEU, OPSEU/SEFPO, PEIUPSE, and SGEU.

Health professionals are navigating a critical juncture, facing significant workplace challenges that jeopardize both their well-being, and the quality of care delivered. Staffing shortages, heavy workloads, inadequate wages top their list of concerns. The vast majority (89%) believe their province’s healthcare system is in crisis.

In addition to chronic staffing shortages, close to three in four survey respondents are facing financial pressures (72%). Many are struggling to cover basic living expenses while others are forced to take on a second job to make ends meet.

Because of these conditions, health care workers are considering leaving their roles — in fact, nearly 40% of survey respondents are considering leaving health care entirely within three years. Four out of five wouldn’t recommend their job to a friend or family member.

A strong majority of health professionals believe in the public care system. In fact, the most significant reasons healthcare professionals cite for declining careers in private healthcare are a belief in equal access to healthcare (61%) and concerns about maintaining high standards of patient care (59%).

Despite the challenges, healthcare professionals remain deeply committed to their roles. They feel a strong sense of purpose: feeling like they are making a difference, with a strong commitment to positive patient outcomes. They are calling for improved staffing, wages, recognition and collaboration to address systemic issues and retain talent.