Challenges of health workforce in the next decade in Bulgaria

Abstract

Abstract Issue The sustainable development of human resources is essential for the effective functioning of the health system and the quality of health services. The analysis of the human resources available in the European region proves serious problems in this area, which requires the adoption of strategic documents with measures to overcome the negative tendencies Description The solution of the existing and expected and future shortage of health professionals is essential to protect the health of the population globally. In this regard, the international migration of health professionals and the shortage of skilled health workforce, as well as the growing disparity between population needs, health care supply and demand, is a topical problem for health systems. Results The mobility and shortage of highly qualified specialists are characteristic of the top of the pyramid. There is a significant shortage in the medium and low levels of the pyramid of healthcare professionals and some non-medical majors. In both cases, there are internal and external imbalances, most often caused by increased migration to economic centers in the country or countries with a high standard of living. A severe shortage of nursing professionals -Bulgaria has the second-lowest ratio of nurses to population and the lowest nurse to physician ratio among all member states. (1:1,2 compared to 1:2,3). The emigration of young doctors and nurses and the ageing of all health professionals - especially well pronounced with nurses and general practitioners - is a threat to the health system. Lessons The research of Human Resources in Healthcare is necessary to diagnose the managerial, financial and socioeconomic problems that arise in their formation and development. A key point - changing the system of postgraduate training. The regulatory standards and limits introduced in outpatient and hospital care and the specialization system do not help to link the incomes of medical staff to the quantity and quality of work. Key messages By the number of medical specialists, Bulgaria still holds positions well above the EU average. However, the age structure of workers implies increasing deficits in the future. Bulgaria should invest and support investments in the development of human capital in the health care system.