Investing in the future health care workforce

Background: Changing population demographics in the U.S. coupled with a shift in the quantity, type and geographic locations of providers making up the health care workforce have contributed to rising disparities in access to health care providers for many Americans including women and children. As of December 2012, 56.8 million people lived in health professional shortage areas and, if care delivery systems don't change, this number is projected to increase. Methods: The National Institute for Health Care Management Foundation (NIHCM) conducted a review of recent literature on the projected future of the health care workforce. We then gathered 7 health plan foundations and a national expert to discuss the implications of these trends for women and children and the role of health plan foundations in mitigating these developments. Several foundations also shared their current work in bolstering the health care workforce in their respective market areas. Results: Health plan foundations are involved in supporting a variety of programs designed to sustain and strengthen the maternal and child health workforce. Presenters will share examples of the most unique and innovative programs and best practices from across the country. Conclusions: While the nation faces looming health care workforce shortages, this is also a time of great opportunity given the many public and private sector initiatives to transform our health care delivery and payment systems. Health plan foundations will continue to be stable partners in securing a sufficient and productive workforce to meet the health care needs of women, children and adolescents.