Mid-level health providers: a promising resource.

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Health Workforce Studies
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Mid-level health providers (MLPs) are increasingly recognized for their potential to address health workforce shortages and improve access to essential services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
• Their role encompasses autonomous diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care, aligning with global health targets.
• Despite their growing importance, MLPs often face marginalization and inadequate management support within health systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the role and impact of mid-level health providers in global health systems.
• To identify strategies for optimizing the integration and effectiveness of MLPs.
• To highlight the policy implications for countries facing health workforce challenges.

Main Methods:

• This study synthesizes existing evidence on the training, scope of practice, and integration of MLPs.
• It reviews data on MLP performance, health system integration, and patient outcomes.
• The analysis considers challenges and facilitators for MLP deployment and support.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests that adequately trained, supported, and integrated MLPs can improve the distribution of health workers and enhance equitable access to healthcare.
• MLP services often meet or exceed quality standards compared to physician-provided care.
• Significant challenges remain, including marginalization and limited management support for MLPs.

Conclusions:

• Expanding the role of MLPs should be a priority policy option for countries with health workforce shortages and maldistribution.
• Improved education, supervision, management, regulation, and health system integration are key to maximizing the benefits of MLPs.
• Strategic investment in MLPs can significantly contribute to achieving universal health coverage and health-related Sustainable Development Goals.