Training PEI - Healthcare Priorities Pilot Program

The Healthcare Priorities Pilot program was developed to assist job seekers gain the skills and education necessary to secure and maintain employment in a health-related priority occupation currently experiencing skill shortages in the province. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible individuals to help them complete a post-secondary certificate or diploma and transition to sustainable employment.

The program is intended to create opportunities for individuals interested in the healthcare professions to advance their skills, employment pathways and careers options.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

If you are unemployed, underemployed or self-employed and lack the necessary skills to secure sustainable employment you may be eligible to participate in this program. You are eligible to apply if you are:

• Accepted to a post-secondary training program for Resident Care Worker, Practical Nursing (LPN), Primary Care Paramedicine, Advanced Care Paramedicine or the Accelerated Nursing Program at the University of Prince Edward Island
• legally authorized to work in Canada (Canadian citizen or permanent resident); or
• a protected person within the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
• Other criteria may apply

How Do I Apply?

You must meet with a case manager to complete a needs assessment and develop a Return-to-Work Action Plan. Your case manager will assist you through the application process. To assess your application SkillsPEI will need:

• Completed Training PEI Application for Funding
• Return-to-Work Action Plan prepared by your case manager;
• SkillsPEI consent form;
• Acceptance letter from the post-secondary institution;
• Proof of education.

For resources on obtaining a case manager, please visit Employment Assistant Services

When is my Application Due?

You must submit your application package and receive confirmation from SkillsPEI that you have been approved for the program before your course starts.

How Does the Program Work?

SkillsPEI will pay up to 70% of your course costs and you will be responsible for the remainder of the course costs. You may also be eligible to receive financial supports while participating in training.

Effective April 1, 2022, additional supports will be provided for individuals interested in Resident Care Workers programs. Additional information can be found at Resident Care Worker Support Program

Effective January 1, 2023, additional supports will be provided to individuals in Licensed Practical Nursing, Primary Care Paramedic and Advance Care Paramedic programs studying in Prince Edward Island. Additional information can be found at the Licensed Practical Nurse and Paramedic Support Program.

This information is a general guide for applicants. Applications received by SkillsPEI will be assessed against additional program criteria to determine eligibility.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Call SkillsPEI's general inquiries line at 1-877-491-4766 or visit one of the SkillsPEI offices.

Application Forms

Training PEI - Healthcare Priorities Pilot Application

Funding Agreement

Funded by the Department of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements.