19 August 2019 – The Palestine Human Resources for Health Observatory was launched on 10 July 2019, in an effort to develop a comprehensive understanding of the health workforce in Palestine. The Observatory will function as a hub for data collection and analysis, enable the dissemination of national indicators on human resources for health, and serve as a coordination platform for health providers and policy-makers.
The Palestine National Institute of Public Health established the national Human Resources for Health Observatory, in collaboration with the Palestinian Ministry of Health, WHO, World Bank and Palestinian and Norwegian governments. The Observatory undertook the first-ever nationwide survey of all health facilities and their health workers in the West Bank (including East Jerusalem), and Gaza Strip. For the first time, data from over 36 000 health workers practising throughout the country from governmental, private and nongovernmental organization health facilities has been compiled based on the national identification number of the health worker, helping to overcome data fragmentation and improve data quality.
An initial report "Mapping the Palestinian Health Workforce" was produced to present information derived from the Human Resources for Health Observatory that provides an in-depth analysis of the local health workforce, as well as gaps and recommendations to be addressed in order to provide policy-makers with evidence for decision-making.
Sustainable methods of connecting with stakeholders and partners to gather and report on national indicators ensures this information will be updated on an annual basis, allowing for proper monitoring of human resources for health, conducting advocacy for health workforce issues and coordinating and promoting research. This information will also provide policy-makers with evidence to develop the first national human resources for health strategy. Ultimately these efforts will help improve the quality and access to health care for all Palestinians.
Related links
Human Resources for Health Observatory
Mapping the Palestinian Health Workforce [report]