Flexible Learning Pathways into Healthcare Occupations

Persistent skill shortages in healthcare are leaving many care needs unmet. This report examines how flexible training and well-defined career pathways can help adults transition into entry-level healthcare roles. Produced jointly by the OECD and the ILO, it examines practices from high, middle and low-income countries and highlights innovative approaches such as modular learning, online education, recognition of prior learning and strong partnerships between training providers and healthcare employers. The report shows that despite the fact that many occupations in the health and care sector are regulated, there is a significant opportunity to take advantage of flexibility in adult learning opportunities and facilitate the entry of a broader range of candidates to the health and care sector. By making adult learning more accessible and responsive, countries can better meet growing healthcare demands, improve care quality and create decent employment opportunities.