NEED FOR NURSE SPECIALIST WORKFORCE IN LITHUANIA AND EUROPEAN UNION: CURRENT SITUATION AND FUTURE OUTLOOK
NEED FOR NURSE SPECIALIST WORKFORCE IN LITHUANIA AND EUROPEAN UNION: CURRENT SITUATION AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

Summary/Abstract: The healthcare workforce is one of the most important resources of the healthcare system, directly influencing the accessibility, quality, and long-term sustainability of healthcare services. In recent years, a significant shortage of nurses has been observed in Lithuania as well as in many European Union countries, making this issue increasingly relevant in the context of health policy and organizational management. Demographic changes, population ageing, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising patient expectations increase the demand for nursing services; however, the pace of nurse education and retention often fails to meet these growing needs. This article analyzes the shortage of nurses in Lithuania and the European Union, aiming to assess the imbalance between the supply and demand of the nursing workforce and its impact on the healthcare system. The analysis is based on a review of national statistical data, European Union indicators, international reports, and administrative assessments from healthcare organizations. The article compares indicators related to the number of nurses, age structure, workload, and migration trends, which allows for the identification of both common and region-specific challenges across different healthcare systems. The findings indicate that the shortage of nurses has a negative impact on the continuity of healthcare service provision, increases staff workload, raises the risk of professional burnout, and may lead to challenges related to service quality and patient safety. In Lithuania, this problem is particularly pronounced in regional areas, where opportunities to attract healthcare personnel are limited and the ageing of the workforce is more evident. At the European Union level, similar trends are observed, although their intensity varies depending on national healthcare system organization and workforce policy measures. The article emphasizes that addressing the shortage of nurses requires a comprehensive approach that integrates strategic workforce planning at the national level with effective organizational management solutions. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the nursing workforce, investments are needed in nurse education, enhancement of professional attractiveness, development of career opportunities, improvement of working conditions, and implementation of staff retention measures. Coordinated, data-driven strategies can contribute to the development of a more stable and efficient healthcare system in Lithuania and the European Union.

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