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Perceived healthcare workforce needs in Lebanon: a step towards informed human resources planning and professional development.

Background
Research in various countries has previously investigated the competencies required for effective management of health care organizations. Yet, limited information is available on the skills and knowledge areas, which are currently lacking among the healthcare workforce employed in environments with limited resources.


Aims
The aim of this study was to assess the perceived healthcare workforce needs at the management and clinical/practice levels in Lebanon.


Methods
We conducted an exploratory Delphi study involving two panels of health care professionals and a nationwide survey of hospital directors to assess the skills needed and the healthcare occupations and specialties that are limited.


Results
Based on the Delphi study, the top five needed skills/knowledge areas were: professionalism, ethics, quality management and improvement, strategic planning, and communication. The need for information management and technology skills was reported by more than 50% of urban hospitals, and highlighted by the two panels in the Delphi study. Healthcare professionals reported willingness to take continuing education courses. Hospitals further indicated the availability of financial support and willingness to collaborate with educational institutions for employee training and continuing education.


Conclusions
Our findings set the ground for future research investigating healthcare workforce issues in Lebanon and support evidence-based planning for health human resources. They may inform the development of national and local policies in the country, which address the human resources needs of the health care system to meet regional and national demands. Universities, professional syndicates, and nongovernmental organizations may leverage these findings to develop continuing education training and diplomas incorporating the competencies critical for the healthcare workforce.