By Zoila Palma: The Caribbean is facing growing challenges in training, recruiting and retaining healthcare workers, with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) estimating that Latin America and the Caribbean could face a shortage of between 600,000 and 2 million health professionals by 2030 if current trends continue. The warning comes as countries across the region work to strengthen their health systems and respond to increasing demand for services.
Migration is adding to the pressure, particularly in the Caribbean. PAHO data show that 92% of health professionals surveyed in the English-speaking Caribbean would be less likely to migrate if greater opportunities for professional development were available in their home countries, highlighting the need for stronger career development and leadership opportunities within the region.
In 2025, CARICOM Ministers of Health endorsed the Human Resources for Resilient Health Systems Caribbean Roadmap 2025–2030, which identifies education, professional development, governance and leadership as key priorities.
“Caribbean countries face growing challenges related to health workforce shortages, migration and the increasing complexity of health workforce governance in relation to public health needs,” said Dr. Benjamin Puertas, Chief of PAHO’s Human Resources for Health Unit.
He said a collaboration between PAHO and The University of the West Indies is helping equip health professionals with the skills needed to develop evidence-based policies that strengthen healthcare systems and advance universal health.
The initiative includes a joint postgraduate programme developed by PAHO specialists and UWI faculty and tailored to Caribbean realities, particularly those of Small Island Developing States.
The post International News: PAHO estimates Health worker shortage of up to 2 million in Latin America and Caribbean by 2030 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The Caribbean is facing growing challenges in training, recruiting and retaining healthcare workers, with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) estimating that Latin America and the Caribbean could face a shortage of between 600,000 and 2 million health professionals by 2030 if current trends continue. The warning comes as countries across the
The post International News: PAHO estimates Health worker shortage of up to 2 million in Latin America and Caribbean by 2030 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.