WHO – The European Junior Doctors (EJD) Association has adopted a new “Policy on Workforce-Led Optimization of Healthcare Systems,” the World Health Organization (WHO/Europe) confirmed on its website.
WHO/Europe welcomed the move, describing it as a “pivotal step” toward equipping health systems to meet rising workforce and population demands, especially in light of ageing societies.
“EJD’s policy is an important demonstration of how frontline health professionals can lead transformative change,” said Dr Cathal Morgan, Technical Officer for Health Workforce at WHO/Europe.
The policy aligns with WHO/Europe’s framework, advocating for skill mix optimization, better data systems, and the use of digital tools to enhance efficiency and resilience in healthcare delivery.
Dr Morgan emphasized that “workforce optimization is not just a technical exercise but a strategic, people-centred response to critical shortages and future system shocks.”
According to WHO projections, many European countries will require 30% more doctors and 33% more nurses by 2071 just to maintain current service levels.
ALSO READ: WHO Panel Presses China For COVID-19 Origins Data In New Report
The EJD calls for improved deployment, targeted training, and systems that prioritize mental health and work-life balance for professionals. These, they say, can improve outcomes without increasing staff numbers.
Dr Patrick Pihelgas, Chair of EJD’s Medical Workforce Committee, said: “It all comes down to how well we use health-care professionals’ valuable time and how we care for their well-being.”
WHO/Europe warns that even countries with high densities of healthcare staff are struggling in rural and specialized areas, due to workforce ageing, migration, and retention issues.
This policy offers a model not only for Europe but also for countries like Nigeria, where similar challenges in rural staffing, burnout, and poor support structures threaten service delivery.
Experts say if regions outside Europe fail to engage in similar optimization efforts, health disparities will widen, and systems may collapse under rising demand and limited resources.
“Optimization is foundational for achieving universal coverage, health equity and resilience,” Dr Morgan added. WHO is urging all regions to review the policy and adapt it to local contexts.