Abstract
BACKGROUND: There is an alarming shortage of medical personnel in Poland, which seriously affects the healthcare system and access to medical services. This study aims to identify possible actions aimed at mitigating and preventing staff shortages in Poland. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted as semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 key stakeholders of the Polish healthcare system. Interviews were conducted from April to July 2024 via the MS Teams platform. A directed content analysis of the interviews was conducted using NVivo software. RESULTS: Respondents indicated the need to develop and implement a long-term plan for the functioning of the healthcare system and medical personnel, which takes into account technological development, demographic and generational changes. Interprofessional cooperation, improved financing and working conditions, better management of available resources and attention to mental health, and implementation of activities aimed at preventing further employee outflow and burnout are necessary. It is also desirable to promote professions and educate from the youngest age - transparently showing and encouraging graduates to take up medical professions. CONCLUSIONS: Possible actions to implement, aimed at reducing and preventing the shortage of medical staff in Poland, include preparing and implementing a long-term plan based on reliable data. The involvement of various entities should be enforced, taking into account management, financing and education. In addition, desirable actions concern the analysis of the needs of employees and the difficulties they face at work.