The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted a significant shortage of nurses and midwives globally, with a projected shortfall of 4.8 million nurses and 0.31 million midwives expected by 2030.
This shortage is most severe in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Eastern Mediterranean region, and parts of Latin America. The WHO emphasized the crucial role of nurses and midwives in healthcare systems, providing essential care, shaping health policies, and driving primary care initiatives.
They are also vital for emergency response and the sustainability of healthcare. Notably, women make up a significant portion of the healthcare workforce, with 67% in the health and social sector compared to 41% across all employment sectors.
In many countries, nurses comprise half of all healthcare professionals and play a vital role in organizing and implementing health actions. The WHO’s statement coincides with the 2024 International Nurses Day, themed ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care’.
WHO mentioned , “Nursing and midwifery are particularly female-dominated professions. Over 80 per cent of the world’s nurses work in countries with only half the global population. Additionally, a significant number of nurses (one in eight) practice in a different country than where they were born or trained.
“A higher number of female nurses correlates with positive health outcomes. Studies show a positive association with health service coverage, and life expectancy, and a negative correlation with infant mortality.
“Investing in nurses and midwives is essential for building efficient, effective, and sustainable healthcare systems worldwide. By addressing the global nursing shortage, the world can ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare.
“Investing in Nurses for a Healthier Future: The positive correlation between the number of female nurses and health outcomes underscores the importance of supporting this workforce.
“Studies show a link between higher levels of female nurses and improved health service coverage, life expectancy, and lower infant mortality rates.”
 has highlighted a significant shortage of nurses and midwives globally, with a projected shortfall of 4.8 million nurses and 0.31 million midwives expected by 2030.){kind=link}