Healthcare systems depend on a sufficiently large and well-trained workforce. However, many countries continue to experience shortages of doctors, nurses, midwives and other health professionals.
The problem is not distributed evenly. Some regions have much lower numbers of healthcare workers per population than wealthier countries, while professionals may also be concentrated in major cities rather than rural areas.
The World Health Organization's 2026 health workforce report identified persistent disparities in workforce availability and distribution. The organisation also highlighted the importance of improving workforce planning and monitoring.
An ageing population is likely to increase demand for healthcare workers in many countries. At the same time, the healthcare workforce itself is ageing, creating concerns about future retirements and the need to train new professionals.
Countries including the United Kingdom have faced ongoing debates about workforce capacity, recruitment and retention. Similar challenges are being experienced elsewhere, with some health systems relying on international recruitment to fill gaps.
Addressing the global workforce challenge will require long-term investment in education, working conditions and workforce planning. Without sufficient healthcare professionals, even well-funded health systems may struggle to provide timely and high-quality care.