Healthcare Aide Day
In Manitoba, Canada, the 18th of October is observed as a non-official holiday called Health Care Aide Day. This was a holiday that was created by the Manitoba government to honor all of those aides who work hard to take care of patients — not only in homes but also in community centers and residential care centers.
Canada (Observance)In the province, there are over 8,000 healthcare aides and it’s those professionals that form an important part of the public healthcare system. Although this isn’t a public holiday, so many institutions operate as normal and people don’t get a day off, it’s still a holiday that’s observed by many to show their respect for these healthcare professionals.
The History Of Health Care Aid Day In Canada
During the 19th century, the only source of healthcare for many people was at hospitals. If people were sick, injured, or disabled, then they would have to seek out a hospital for medical care. That changed in 1909 when insurance companies offered the first home healthcare policies.
Over the next two decades, over a million home healthcare visits then took place. On October 18th, 2012, the government of British Columbia proclaimed Health Care Assistant Day. The holiday was then adopted by Manitoba as well. It’s been celebrated as a holiday ever since.
Observing Health Care Aid Day In Canada
This holiday is mainly observed as an administrative holiday that’s honors the healthcare aides who go to their jobs every day all year round. These are the professionals who not only help render health aid but also provide their patients with comfort.
This isn’t an official public holiday, so it’s not a day off for the general public, and most institutions remain open for the day. It’s a good day for everyone to show healthcare aids the respect they deserve, however, and many people do.
Canada (Observance)
