Models and tools for health workforce planning and projections

Overview

The formulation of national human resources for health (HRH) policies and strategies requires evidence-based planning to rationalize decisions. A range of tools and resources exists to assist countries in developing a national HRH strategic plan. Such plans normally include short- and long-term targets and cost estimates for scaling up education and training for health workers, reducing workforce imbalances, strengthening the performance of staff, improving staff retention and adapting to any major health sector reforms, while also being harmonized with broader strategies for social and economic development.

The objective of this paper is to take stock of the available methods and tools for health workforce planning and projections, and to describe the processes and resources needed to undertake such an exercise. This review is not meant to be exhaustive, but illustrative of the tools and resources available and commonly used in countries.