Provincial Staffing Incentives Extended Again
The Provincial Rural Retention Incentive has been extended until September 30
BCNU is pleased to report that the Ministry of Health has once again agreed to extend the Provincial Rural Retention Incentive (PRRI) and other staffing initiatives in recognition of the ongoing nurse staffing shortages affecting both rural and urban communities.
These programs were first introduced following BCNU’s successful negotiation of a $169.5 million one-time provincial investment to support implementation of minimum nurse-to-patient ratios. Originally available from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, the funding was intended to support recruitment and retention efforts across the province. The latest extension follows continued discussions between the Ministry of Health and the Nurses’ Bargaining Association and is a direct result of BCNU’s ongoing advocacy.
The PRRI, which supports 74 rural communities, will now remain in effect until September 30, 2025. Nurses in these communities working in regular positions remain eligible to receive up to $2,000 per quarter (prorated to productive hours), to a maximum of $8,000 per year. We are disappointed, however, that many communities that would clearly benefit from this initiative continue to be excluded.
Other staffing incentives will continue unless the ministry provides 14 days' notice of any changes. These include:
- GoHealth BC signing bonuses of up to $15,000 for eligible nurses who accept regular positions in the provincial travel nursing program. This initiative aims to reduce agency reliance and prioritize new entrants to the system.
- Rural and remote signing bonuses of up to $30,000 for eligible nurses who sign a two-year return-of-service agreement in the North, and up to $20,000 in other rural and remote areas.
- Urban and metro signing bonuses of up to $15,000 for eligible nurses filling permanent, difficult-to-fill vacancies through a two-year return-of-service agreement. Eligibility is focused on new nurses and those returning to practice.
If you have questions about these incentives or your eligibility, please contact your BCNU steward.