Challenges and strategies of human resources for health in Portugal: public and private sectors
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0222e.39826Keywords:
health workforce; human resources for health; health workforce planning; health policyAbstract
Introduction: The world is evolving, and several challenges are affecting the health workforce, including shortages of human resources, unequal distribution across territories, and digital transformation.
Objective: To identify the main challenges and strategies used by stakeholders in the public and private sectors, as well as experts, to improve human resources for health management in Portugal.
Methods: This qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study was conducted through semi-structured interviews. Eight participants were selected using a non-probabilistic convenience sampling technique. All recordings and transcripts were kept confidential and were accessible only to the research team.
Results: The analysis identified 11 challenges, grouped into five categories: recruitment and hiring; attraction, retention, and workforce stability; working conditions; future challenges; and leadership strategies. Additionally, participants outlined 50 strategies that may contribute to addressing these issues.
Conclusion: Among the identified challenges and strategies, access to technology and leadership emerged as particularly relevant. Other proposed solutions included contract flexibility, recruitment based on job profiles, integrated responsibility centers, exit interviews, retirement planning, and digital psychological support, which warrant further investigation. The human resources for health is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach rather than a single solution.
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