What's Happening?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has projected a global shortage of 11 million healthcare workers by 2030. This shortage was a key topic at the Healthcare Leadership forum during the World Health Expo (WHX) in Dubai. The forum, which runs until February
12, 2026, brought together healthcare leaders to discuss strategies for building a sustainable workforce. The WHO estimates that addressing this shortage could generate $1.1 trillion for the global economy, with $300 billion potentially coming from healthcare worker jobs. Discussions at the forum emphasized the need for better training and retention strategies to capture this economic value. Key speakers included Hein Van Eck, CEO of Mediclinic Middle East, and Mohaymen Abdelghany, Group CEO of Fakeeh Health, who highlighted the importance of understanding workforce attrition and developing local education and training capacities.
Why It's Important?
The projected shortage of healthcare workers poses significant challenges to global health systems, particularly as demand rises due to aging populations. The economic implications are substantial, with potential losses in healthcare delivery and economic productivity. For the U.S., this shortage could impact healthcare costs, access to care, and the quality of services. Addressing the shortage through improved training and retention could not only mitigate these risks but also provide economic benefits by creating jobs and enhancing healthcare delivery. The discussions at WHX underscore the need for international collaboration and strategic workforce planning to ensure a resilient healthcare system.
What's Next?
The forum highlighted the need for countries like the UAE to develop comprehensive workforce strategies that balance international recruitment with local talent development. The UAE is already working on a federal strategy to address these challenges, which could serve as a model for other nations. The WHO's Jim Campbell emphasized the importance of linking education to employment and collaborating with fast-growing regions like Africa. As countries develop their strategies, they will need to focus on creating sustainable pipelines for healthcare professionals and fostering international partnerships to address the global shortage.
Beyond the Headlines
The global healthcare worker shortage raises ethical and cultural considerations, particularly regarding international recruitment practices. Countries must balance the need for skilled workers with the potential impact on the healthcare systems of exporting nations. Additionally, the focus on retention and training highlights the importance of creating supportive work environments and career progression opportunities for healthcare professionals. These efforts are crucial for building a resilient workforce capable of meeting future healthcare demands.
