COVID-19 Pandemic Effects on Job Search and Employment of Graduates (2015–2020) of Canadian Dietetic Programmes

Abstract

Purpose: Self-reported coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic effects on dietetic job search, employment, and practice of recent graduates were explored within a national workforce survey. Methods: Graduates (2015–2020) who were registered/licensed dietitians or eligible to write the Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam were recruited through dietetic programmes, Dietitians of Canada’s communication channels, and social media. The online survey, available in English and French from August through October 2020, included questions about pandemic experiences. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were applied to closed and open-ended responses, respectively. Results: Thirty-four percent of survey respondents (n = 524) indicated pandemic effects on job search and described delayed entry into dietetics, fewer job opportunities, and challenges including restricted work between sites. The pandemic affected employment for 44% of respondents; of these, 45% indicated working from home, 45% provided virtual counselling, 7% were redeployed within dietetics, 14% provided nondietetic COVID-19 support, and 6% were furloughed or laid off. Changed work hours, predominantly reduced, were identified by 29%. Changes in pay, identified by 12%, included loss (e.g., raises deferred) or gain (e.g., pandemic pay). Fear of infection and stress about careers and finances were expressed. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected both acquiring positions and employment in 2020 for recent dietetic graduates.