The Global Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Workforce

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Workforce Studies
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Adequate healthcare workforce is crucial for managing head and neck diseases.
• Previous global workforce estimates (WHO, 2012) were limited by low response rates and outdated data.
• There is a need for comprehensive, updated metrics on the global otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) workforce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish comprehensive global workforce metrics for otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS).
• To provide updated data on the OHNS workforce from a wider range of countries and territories.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted from February 10 to June 22, 2022.
• The survey targeted professional society leaders, medical licensing boards, public health officials, and practicing OHNS clinicians.
• Data were collected from 121 of 195 countries/territories, representing 84% of the global population.

Main Results:

• The global OHNS clinician density was 2.19 per 100,000 population (range: 0-61.7).
• Clinician density significantly correlated with country income level, with higher-income nations having more OHNS specialists.
• Europe reported the highest density (5.70/100,000), while Africa (0.18/100,000) and Southeast Asia (1.12/100,000) had the lowest.

Conclusions:

• This study offers a comprehensive assessment of the global OHNS workforce, identifying significant regional and income-based disparities.
• Findings can inform strategic investments in training and policy development to address workforce shortages.
• Addressing these disparities is essential for equitable delivery of care for ear diseases, hearing loss, and head and neck cancers.