Five years ago on March 11th, 2025, the World Health Organization officially declared the COVID-19 global pandemic, marking the beginning of one of the most challenging periods in recent times, especially in the seniors’ care sector. In light of the fifth year since the beginning of the pandemic, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) reflects on this time and honours all the frontline workers, leaders, and residents who demonstrated their resilience through those difficult times.
The COVID-19 pandemic and years that followed brought critical challenges to the sector, from the social isolation of residents to critical staffing shortages across seniors’ care homes. Prior to the declaration of the provincial state of emergency, BCCPA proactively engaged with the Ministry of Health to highlight the virus’ imminent threat to long-term care. BCCPA worked tirelessly alongside the Ministry and our members to provide crucial support and facilitate transparent communication across the sector.
One of BCCPA’s key efforts during the pandemic was coordinating the inaugural meeting of the Ministry of Health Sector Working Group, bringing together senior Ministry officials and industry representatives to address the crisis together. To further support the sector, BCCPA also mobilized its staff to form a COVID-19 Rapid Response Team, ensuring enhanced communications for our members, the sector, elected officials, and the public.
Throughout the pandemic, BCCPA advocated on critical issues, including concerns over the Single Site Staffing Order, which intensified staffing shortages and contributed to the isolation of seniors in care. Our continuous advocacy work helped shape key policy discussions, ensuring the voices of long-term care providers and residents were heard at the highest level.
As we reflect back on this time, we thank the tireless efforts of those across the sector. The resiliency and commitment we have seen have inspired all of us to move forward and continue working towards a better future of our seniors.
