Friday, July 25, 2025
Brasília, 25 July 2025 (PAHO) — Representatives from Ministries of Health in the Americas gathered to finalize key elements for a future roadmap aimed at ethical and sustainable management of migration of health professionals. These discussions took place during the International Forum on Human Resources for Health (HRH) in the Americas, organized by Brazil’s Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The forum, held from 23 to 25 July in Brasília, Brazil, highlighted the severe impact of migration on low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, noted that the increased migration of health professionals strains existing systems, worsening structural gaps and difficult working conditions. The pandemic exacerbated staffing shortages, especially in rural and underserved areas, with estimates suggesting by 2030, Latin America and the Caribbean will face a shortage of 600,000 to 2 million health professionals. Countries agreed to strengthen human resources and seek joint solutions between countries of origin and destination. The roadmap includes promoting commitments for ethical recruitment and fair treatment, in line with the WHO Global Code of Practice. It also aims to enhance health workforce planning, strengthen health systems through primary health care, and collect data on migration. Brazil’s Minister of Health emphasized the urgency of rethinking labor, education, and health policies as the Forum convenes at a strategic moment. “The shortage and uneven distribution of health professionals remain concrete challenges, and international migration, when managed ethically, can worsen inequalities,” he said. Brazil has sought to address these issues through policies that support and value workers within the Unified Health System. The Forum also included a regional consultation on the third review of the WHO Global Code of Practice on international recruitment. Countries supported recommendations and shared experiences to improve international cooperation.
Reference: Countries of the Americas move toward a joint approach to manage health workforce migration amid growing shortagesLabels: PAHO
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