Provincial Staffing Incentives Further Extended

Following continued pressure from BCNU to secure an ongoing commitment to staffing supports, the Ministry of Health has confirmed another extension of the provincial rural retention incentive (PRRI) to March 31, 2026. This latest extension follows further discussions between the Ministry of Health, the Nurses’ Bargaining Association and other health sector bargaining associations, and comes as staffing challenges continue across the health-care system.

The PRRI continues to support 74 rural communities. 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. BCNU remains disappointed, however, that many communities that would clearly benefit from this initiative continue to be excluded.

The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the PRRI and the following recruitment incentives will continue to be offered under the same policies, terms and eligibility criteria currently in place and continue until March 31, 2026, unless otherwise advised in writing:  

• 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.

While BCNU continues to press for more permanent solutions to address chronic staffing shortages, these incentives remain an important interim measure to support nurses and patient care across the province.

If you have questions about how these incentives apply to you, or about your eligibility, please contact your BCNU steward.