Europe is facing a health workforce crisis. Health worker shortages, medical deserts, attrition and skill-gaps are reported by many Member States. The pandemic has laid bare these deficiencies and aggravated the situation, with many health workers leaving the health system due to overwork, burnout and feeling undervalued and underpaid. The demographic change in Europe is putting additional pressure on health systems. We have ageing societies and an ageing health workforce. As patients’ demands for healthcare are increasing, the pool of young workers to replenish or grow the health workforce is about to decline.