Late last year, more than 6,400 health care workers across Canada, including over 600 from MGEU, participated in a national survey designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the health care system and pathways for its improvement.

Initiated by the MGEU's National Union—the National Union for Public and Government Employees (NUPGE)—the survey highlights the challenges, opportunities, contributions, and solutions for NUPGE health care members.

Conducted by Abacus Data, the survey revealed the significant strain health care workers, and the health care system, are under across Canada:

  • Approximately 9 out of 10 health care professionals (89%) report the system is in crisis
  • More than half of workers (55%) say the system is understaffed
  • Four out of five workers (80%) indicate that working short-staffed causes moderate or severe effects on their own health
  • More than half of workers (61%) report heavy workloads and burnout

Because of these conditions, nearly 40% of survey respondents are considering leaving health care entirely within three years.

In addition to highlighting the significant challenges in their workplaces, nine out of ten health care workers proposed two steps to resolving the crisis: increasing staffing levels and enhancing wages, benefits and pensions.

"NUPGE is committed to fighting for better conditions for all workers. Better conditions will directly contribute to better health care for all through Canada's public care system," said NUPGE President Bert Blundon. "These health professionals have shared experiences that show how urgent the situation is across the country. It's time for government to take action."

Read the report

Manitoba-specific findings

Thank you to the MGEU health care members who shared your experiences and perspectives in the survey!

Health care workers in our province shared that:

  • Inadequate wages are a significant concern (62%)
  • They are the most likely workers in the country to feel emotionally exhausted (87%)
  • Staffing levels are inadequate (68%)
  • They are facing heavy workload and burnout (63%)