Overview

Europe faces a growing health and care workforce (HCWF) crisis, with shortages threatening universal health coverage, equity, and system resilience. This policy brief explores how countries can institutionalize workforce planning and forecasting, build sustainable capacity, and strengthen governance to turn forecasts into action. Drawing on case studies from across Europe, it highlights practical options to embed HCWF planning into durable institutions, align it with training and labour market strategies, and secure long-term political and financial support. The brief is a roadmap for policymakers who want to move beyond short-term fixes and build a resilient, future-ready workforce.