Europe’s health workforce on the brink: Doctors bring their voice to European Parliament

Europe’s health workforce is facing an unprecedented crisis, driven by an ageing population and an increasing demand for medical services. Healthcare systems across Europe are grappling with severe staffing shortages, as medicine is losing its attractiveness as a profession, ever-younger doctors are leaving the profession.

MEP Dr András Kulja, said “European doctors, nurses and, above all, patients need more attention. The challenges are similar across Europe. That is why we need to act together, at EU level, because failure to do so could cost patients their lives and lead to a catastrophe.”

Shortages place a tremendous burden on doctors, resulting in excessive work hours, burnout, and compromised patient care. Such poor working conditions take a toll on doctors’ physical and mental health. 

MEP Tilly Metz said “To address the shortage of healthcare workers, we need more cooperation, rather than competition. Careers in the health sector must be more attractive. We must improve working conditions that go well beyond salary. Support for mental health, digitalisation and occupational safety are equally important”

Dr Ole Johan Bakke, President of the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME), added “Today doctors from across Europe have travelled to the European Parliament with a clear message: we need an EU strategy for the health workforce. 

“The warning signs are clear: Europe's health workforce is stretched thinner every year and is heading towards a breaking point that will impact patients and professionals alike. European countries share these problems and we need to cooperate on shared solutions.”