HEALTH WORKFORCE PLANNING, COMPETENCY DEVELOPMENT, AND RETENTION

Abstract

The health workforce is a fundamental component of every health system and plays a decisive role in determining the effectiveness of healthcare delivery in all countries. The quality of healthcare services depends largely on the availability, accessibility, equitable distribution, and competence of health professionals. Therefore, investment in the health workforce represents a strategic investment in health, social, and economic development (WHO, 2026). The health workforce encompasses a wide range of professional groups involved in promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care. This chapter focuses on the core health workforce, including physicians, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, dental nurses, and nutritionists, who work collaboratively to ensure safe, high-quality, patient-centered healthcare that responds to the health needs of individuals and communities throughout the life course.