Health Workforce Planning: an urgent need to link islands of expertise

Abstract

This article provides a snapshot of the legislative framework for, and ministries and agencies involved in or with influence over, the
education of the health and disability workforce, including examples of disconnection between the wider health and education sectors.
Particular challenges occur between health professional regulators, education providers and clinical (placement) providers because their respective areas of expertise tend to be siloed, thus reducing the capacity for a coordinated and holistic perspective. Four potential ‘bridges’ for linking these ‘islands’ of expertise are suggested. The current period of institutional reforms in the health and education sectors presents an opportunity to refine the structures and systems for workforce education and planning, thereby facilitating a more flexible, responsive and resilient workforce which is better equipped to engage with, and improve outcomes for, the wider community.