Millions of Health Workers Lacking Globally

Globally, an estimated 34.4 million additional health workers are required to achieve moderate universal health coverage, according to a study in The Lancet Public Health. The largest shortages are identified in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The analysis also revealed that the global health workforce nearly tripled between 1990 and 2023, with women comprising over 70% of this growth and approximately 70% of all health workers in 2023.

Despite this expansion, persistent shortfalls remain in essential roles such as doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, and pharmacists. Women have significantly shaped the health sector over the past three decades but are frequently concentrated in lower-paying professions with limited leadership prospects. Achieving stronger health systems necessitates not only workforce expansion but also the creation of equitable career advancement opportunities and supportive working environments.