Strengthening Europe's Healthcare Workforce: Attracting and retaining talent in a regional context

One of the core themes discussed was the urgent need to improve working conditions and organizational culture in the healthcare sector. Olena Horlach emphasized that healthcare employers across Europe are struggling with workforce shortages, which are often linked to the quality of the work environment. Without better working conditions and opportunities for career development, it will remain difficult to attract young professionals and retain experienced workers. The event participants echoed these concerns, highlighting in particular the necessity of fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes well-being and professional growth.
Another major focus was the importance of engaging younger generations in healthcare. Birgitta Sacrédeus pointed out that younger healthcare professionals tend to value roles that emphasize preventive healthcare over traditional treatment-focused roles. This shift in mindset calls for an adaptation of training programs and career opportunities to better align with these emerging values. Encouraging younger professionals to see healthcare as a field where they can make a meaningful contribution, especially in preventive care, could help fill gaps in the workforce and attract new talent.
The session also addressed the issue of cross-border recognition of medical qualifications, a significant obstacle in recruiting international talent. José Diniz emphasized that disparities in the recognition of degrees and specializations across EU countries complicate efforts to bring foreign healthcare workers into regions where they are most needed. Simplifying and harmonizing these processes could help alleviate workforce shortages, particularly in regions that rely heavily on international professionals to meet their staffing needs.
Multilevel governance and the importance of collaboration between regional, national, and EU-level authorities were repeatedly highlighted throughout the session. Ms Sacrédeus referenced the successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine as an example of how coordinated efforts can achieve significant results. She argued that a similar approach could be applied to solving healthcare workforce shortages, with all levels of government working together to create sustainable solutions.
Mental health and well-being also emerged as critical areas requiring attention. Speakers stressed the need to address the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers, particularly in terms of burnout and stress. Ensuring healthcare professionals have access to mental health support is essential for their long-term retention. This aligns with broader EU initiatives aimed at improving worker well-being, with participants calling for a stronger focus on this issue in future healthcare policies.
Finally, the event underscored the need for more targeted funding and regional support from the EU. Many participants suggested that EU funding mechanisms should be adapted to better support regions in developing tailored strategies to address local healthcare workforce challenges.