The Bahamas Government has taken an essential step toward strengthening its healthcare workforce with the launch of the Health Labour Market Analysis (HLMA) Training Webinar Series. Facilitated by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), this initiative is laying the foundation for developing a national policy and strategy to enhance Human Resources for Health (HRH), bringing the nation closer to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
This training series comprises three virtual and in-person workshops and provides a platform for stakeholders to examine and address current challenges within The Bahamas' health workforce, such as workforce shortages, evolving skill demands, and the need for integrated healthcare services. Dr. Edwin Bolastig, Subregional Advisor for Human Resources for Health, and Mr. Sebastian Oleas, PAHO International Consultant, are leading the training, with support from Dr. Anton Best, PAHO Health Systems and Services (HSS) Advisor for The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands.
Dr. Benjamin Puertas, Unit Chief for Human Resources for Health at PAHO Headquarters, opened the webinar, emphasizing the critical supportive role that PAHO has played in HRH in the Caribbean region and will continue to play in addressing HRH under the Health Workforce 2030 Strategy.
The training will equip stakeholders with tools and methodologies for comprehensive health workforce analysis and evidence-based planning. The HLMA framework will allow The Bahamas to design tailored HRH policies to meet current and future healthcare demands, aligning with the national vision of "One Country, One Plan for Health."
PAHO/WHO remains committed to supporting The Bahamas' health sector transformation, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all. This mission will play a pivotal role in developing the HRH Policy and Strategy 2025-2030, paving the way for a more integrated, people-centered healthcare system for the Bahamian population.
