Jamaica finalized its health workforce policy and implementation plan, marking a critical step toward strengthening the health workforce as the foundation of health for all.  

PAHO provided technical cooperation to improve workforce data quality, conduct labor market analyses, and align the policy with regional and global HRH standards. The plan addresses long-standing challenges such as workforce shortages, uneven distribution, skills gaps, and health worker migration, while embedding health for all and sustainability considerations. Improved data systems now enable evidence-based workforce planning, monitoring, and policy adjustment. The policy supports scaling up training in alignment with national priorities, expanding continuous professional development, strengthening retention strategies, and improving deployment to underserved areas.  

By institutionalizing HRH planning and governance, Jamaica strengthened its capacity to deliver quality services, improve access and continuity of care, and enhance system resilience to future shocks, directly contributing to improved health outcomes across the life course. 

Photo caption: Health workforce is strengthened by the new policy and implementation plan.

Credit: PAHO Jamaica.