Closing the Gap: Reclassification and Fair Pay for Alberta’s LPNs

For years, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Alberta have been doing critical, patient-centered work while facing a persistent wage and recognition gap compared to their Registered Nurse (RN) counterparts. According to AUPE, LPNs perform 84% of the jobs that RNs do, yet only receive 70% of the compensation. And that was *before* UNA reached a significant deal with AHS—now, as of April 3, 2025, that number has dropped closer to 60%. This disparity is not just a pay issue—it’s a matter of respect, professional recognition, and fair treatment. LPNs are currently bargaining alongside aides and assistants, instead of being recognized within the same classification as RNs and RPNs.

Conflicting Narratives: Who Do We Believe?

Recent updates from both AUPE and AHS paint polar-opposite pictures of the collective bargaining process. AUPE has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with negotiations, stating that LPNs deserve significantly higher wages to reflect their critical role in healthcare. Meanwhile, AHS maintains that the demands presented are unrealistic and that formal mediation is necessary.

This conflicting messaging leaves LPNs and the public wondering: Who is telling the full story? Regardless of which side presents a more accurate account of negotiations, one thing remains clear — Alberta's LPNs deserve fair compensation, respect, and recognition for the indispensable work they do.

The Reality of LPNs' Role

LPNs are the backbone of healthcare, playing a vital role in delivering high-quality patient care. They assess, plan, and implement treatment, administer medications, perform complex procedures, and advocate for patient well-being—all while collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure Albertans receive the care they deserve.

Despite their evolving responsibilities, LPNs' compensation does not reflect the extent of their contributions. While official classifications dictate that LPNs perform 84% of the tasks carried out by RNs—primarily due to restrictions in specialized areas like critical care and labour and delivery—in most workplaces, LPNs perform the *same* duties as their RN counterparts. The ongoing pay disparity is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.

Why a Job Function Analysis is Crucial

A Job Function Analysis would provide concrete, data-driven evidence of the responsibilities and competencies of LPNs versus RNs, ensuring that wages and recognition align with their actual contributions. Without this analysis, Alberta’s LPNs remain undervalued, fueling burnout, staffing shortages, and an unsustainable healthcare system.

Time for Action

LPNs, healthcare professionals, and the public must demand fairness. Here's what you can do:

✅ Advocate for a job function analysis that reflects the reality of LPNs’ work.

✅ Raise awareness by sharing facts, statistics, and personal stories.

✅ Hold AHS and the Alberta Government accountable for fair negotiations.

Alberta's healthcare system depends on LPNs. No matter what’s happening at the bargaining table, we remain committed to standing up for their fair treatment, respect, and recognition.