New WHO Toolkit to support European Member States in preparing health and care workers for health crises

New WHO Toolkit to support European Member States in preparing health and care workers for health crises

Recognising the vital role played by health and care workers in health crises, as most recently exemplified by the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, the World Health Organisation (WHO/Europe) has released a toolkit for European Member States on how to better support health and care workers.

Health and care workers are deeply embedded in the communities they serve, and thus are well placed to provide relief and assistance in times of emergency. Yet, the sector is highly overworked, underfunded and understaffed. Therefore, investment in health workforce training and well-being is crucial so that they can meet their potential as agents of change. The Toolkit outlines the following actionable strategies to empower health and care workers and enhance their contributions to emergency responses:

• Building capacity and providing tools;
• Fostering 2-way communication;
• Offering emotional and logistical support;
• Promoting health literacy;
• Engaging HCWs as influencers.

EPR hopes to see Member States take up these recommendations and implement the suggested measures to build durable health systems which can meet the needs of the whole population, including vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities.

Access the toolkit here.