Healthcare Aide Day
In Manitoba, Canada, the 18th of October is observed as an unofficial holiday called Health Care Aide Day. This holiday was created by the Manitoba government to honor all those aides who work hard to take care of patients—not only in homes but also in community centers and residential care facilities.
Canada (Observance)In the province, there are over 8,000 healthcare aides, and these professionals form an important part of the public healthcare system. Although this is not a public holiday, so many institutions operate as usual and people do not get a day off, it is still a holiday that is observed by many to show their respect for these healthcare professionals.
The History of Health Care Aide 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, 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 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 has been celebrated as a holiday ever since.
Observing Health Care Aide Day in Canada
This holiday is mainly observed as an administrative holiday that honors the healthcare aides who go to their jobs every day all year round. These are the professionals who not only help provide health aid but also offer their patients comfort.
This is not an official public holiday, so it is not a day off for the general public, and most institutions remain open for the day. It is a good day for everyone to show healthcare aides the respect they deserve, however, and many people do.
Canada (Observance)
