Monitoring the implementation of the WHO global code of pratice on the International recruitment of health personnel

The health workforce is at the core of a health system. Global health targets and universal health coverage (UHC) are not likely to be attained unless health systems employ a sufficient number of health workers who are appropriately skilled and motivated, equitably distributed and well supported.1,2 In any setting currently facing a critical shortage of health workers, extending health-care coverage and offering a broader health service package will not be possible.2 Staff shortages are exacerbated by the international migration of health workers who seek better employment opportunities, wages and working conditions abroad. This unplanned or uncontrolled outflow of health workers can weaken a health system, undermine planning projections and erode its current and future skills base.