Health Care Aide (HCA)

Your Health Team

On July 16, 2025, the Government of Alberta announced Health Care Aides will become a regulated profession effective February 2, 2026. As a result, HCAs must have and maintain an active HCA Directory status (a condition of employment) and renew by November 30 annually. The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) will define the standards HCAs must meet. For more information see CLPNA HCA Regulations and HCA Regulation FAQs.

A Health Care Aide (HCA) provides direct care, personal assistance and support to patients who are ill, elderly or disabled. They assist patients with activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting. They may help with feeding or exercise and in some settings help patients take their medications. Health Care Aides are also known as nursing attendants, home support aides, home support workers or residential support workers.

What Do Health Care Aides Do?

  • Assist with bathing, grooming, dressing and other personal hygiene activities
  • Assist with feeding patients
  • Assist with bed transfers, lifting, turning and walking
  • Assist with range of motion exercises
  • Assist with simple wound care, respiratory equipment use or urinary care
  • Report on patient condition to the nurse
  • Assist patients to take their medications
  • Communicate with patients

Where Do Health Care Aides Work?

  • Long-term care facilities
  • Hospital or health care centre
  • Home care
  • Community

Health Care Aides at AHS

There are over 8500 Health Care Aides employed by Acute Care Alberta (including AHS), Primary Care Alberta, Recovery Alberta, and Assisted Living Alberta.

What Are the Credentials for a Health Care Aide?

  • Prior to February 2, 2026, Health Care Aides are required to have an Active status in the HCA Directory.
  • After February 2, 2026, Health Care Aides are required to be in good standing and registered in the CLPNA registry.

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