A history of nursing as a pillar of the Canadian healthcare system
The history of nursing in Canada shows how the profession grew from informal caregiving into one of the most important parts of the healthcare system. Nursing has evolved through education, regulation, and leadership, supported by the efforts of dedicated individuals and national organizations. Today, nurses are leaders in patient care, community health, and healthcare policy, making them a cornerstone of the Canadian healthcare system (Canadian Nurses Association, 2020).
Early beginning of nursing in Canada
Nursing in Canada began in the early 1600s when women such as Marie Rollet Hébert and religious communities provided care for settlers and Indigenous peoples. These early caregivers laid the foundation for a caring and service-oriented profession. During the 19th century, the need for trained nurses grew as hospitals became more common. Nursing slowly changed from volunteer and religious work to a more formal occupation with professional standards (Canadian Nurses Association, 2020).
Nursing Education and Professionalization
Nursing education in Canada has progressed greatly over time. The first formal nursing school was established in 1874 at the St. Catharines General and Marine Hospital. This marked the beginning of structured nurse training. In 1919, the University of British Columbia introduced the first university nursing degree in Canada. Later, in 1942, the University of Toronto launched an integrated degree program that combined classroom learning with hospital practice. That same year, the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) was formed to improve nursing education and set national standards (Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing [CASN], 2023). These developments helped nursing become a respected and professional career in the country.
Practice, Regulation and leadership
As education improved, nursing practice and leadership also grew stronger. Nurses began to take on new roles in hospitals, communities, and public health. The profession became regulated to ensure safety and quality care. According to The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing (2020), Canadian nurses and nursing organizations have influenced major healthcare policies and promoted health equity across the country. This growth gave nurses more independence, leadership roles, and the ability to guide health decisions.
Nursing as a Pillar of the Canadian Healthcare System
Today, nurses play a vital role in all areas of healthcare. They provide care in hospitals, clinics, long-term care homes, and communities. Nurses also contribute to health education, research, and policymaking. According to the Canadian Health Workforce Network (2023), nursing includes many regulated professions such as registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and psychiatric nurses. Each of these roles is essential for maintaining patient safety, improving health outcomes, and ensuring quality healthcare across Canada.
Implication for the future
The evolution of nursing in Canada shows that nurses are key to the strength of the healthcare system. They serve as caregivers, educators, and leaders who respond to the changing needs of society. As Canada faces new challenges such as an aging population, chronic diseases, and the need for culturally safe care for Indigenous peoples, nurses will continue to play an essential role in improving health for all Canadians. Nursing has become not just a profession, but a foundation of Canada’s healthcare system.