The health workforce is facing a moment of crisis. Recent data from the OECD have identified a shortage of 1.2 million doctors and other healthcare professionals in Europe in 2022. Additionally, data indicates that more than a third of doctors across EU countries will reach retirement age by 2030.
However, the ongoing health workforce crisis should not be seen solely as a consequence of increased retirements among health professionals outpacing recruitment efforts; rather, it is a complex issue influenced by multiple challenges. These challenges include rising demands for healthcare services due to demographic shifts, the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and evolving consumer expectations regarding healthcare delivery.
Shortages place a tremendous burden on doctors, resulting in excessive work hours, burnout, and compromised patient care. Such poor working conditions take a toll on doctors’ physical and mental health.
The eight organisations jointly recommend that robust retention strategies are implemented alongside recruitment efforts. It is crucial to address staffing and improve working conditions to prevent migration and attrition. Finally high standards for medical education must be upheld and accompanied with investment in high quality undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to foster skilled and competent doctors.