Ready to Lead: An Innovative Microcredentials Leadership Program for Frontline Healthcare Workers in Continuing Care.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Continuing Care Services
• Leadership Development

Background:

• Nova Scotia faces growing demand for continuing care due to an aging population and high disability rates.
• Frontline staffing shortages are a primary concern, overshadowing the need for new healthcare leaders.
• Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) represent a skilled workforce capable of leadership.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Ready to Lead (R2L) microcredential program designed for CCAs and LPNs.
• To explore R2L's potential as a strategy for developing and retaining leaders in continuing care.
• To provide insights for health leaders on effective training and retention strategies.

Main Methods:

• The article details the design and development of the R2L program.
• It examines the outcomes from the inaugural R2L program offering.
• Case study approach focusing on a specific microcredential series.

Main Results:

• The R2L program successfully prepared CCAs and LPNs for leadership roles.
• The program demonstrated potential as a recruitment and retention tool.
• Participant feedback highlighted the value of the microcredential series for career progression.

Conclusions:

• The R2L program offers a viable model for developing future leaders in continuing care.
• Investing in targeted leadership training can address critical needs within the continuing care sector.
• Health leaders can utilize such programs to enhance workforce development and retention strategies.