Working

English is the main language used in health care in Saskatchewan.  You need to speak and write English fluently to communicate effectively with patients and to work with other health care professionals.  Knowing English medical terms and understanding the culture of the Canadian health care system are also required.

The following section contains information specific to the importance of English in the context of working in health care.  For more general information, visit Learning English. 

The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) describe the language skills needed to complete certain tasks.  The skills are described over three stages and in 12 levels.  For most health occupations in Saskatchewan, you will need English skills from levels seven to ten, as a minimum.

Visit the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks website to find out how we describe language levels in Canada. 

If English is not your first language or if you did not take your training in English, you may be required to complete an English test that evaluates your English writing, speaking, listening and reading skills.

Ask your regulatory body if you need to be tested, which English tests are accepted and what scores are required.

It is important to have your English language assessed.  Even if you have trained in English in your home country, you may still need to have your English assessed.  (Read more about Patricia's experience). 

Once you live in Saskatchewan, you will have many options for improving your English language skills.  If English is not your first language, you may want to learn English before you come to Saskatchewan.

There are websites that can help you measure your language skills, improve your language skills and decide what kind of language training you may need.  

Language is key.  Have your English language tested and learn advanced English before you leave your home country.