Health workforce in Serbia in two periods: before and after 1950; [Zdravstveni kadar u Srbiji u periodu pre i posle 1950. Godine.]

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Health workers are the embodiment of the core values of the health system, and they guide towards the most effective and economic utilization of all other resources. Historical developmental evidences can be helpful to understand their actual position in Serbia. Description of the health workforce development and coverage in two periods: before and after 1950 in Serbia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective study is a descriptive analysis of the health workforce development, based on literature review and routinelly collected data. RESULTS: Health care workforce in Serbia before 1950 was inadequate in number and skills required with regard to the society needs. At the same time health workers were highly motivated to learn and were ready to fit and stretch when needed. Since 1950 onwards there has been a continual intention to enlarge the number and skills of healthcare workforce, but other mechanisms for capacity building of health profession have been often overseen. DISCUSSION: Though health needs were recognized as criteria for health manpower planning and development, they were not appropriately followed in the practice. CONCLUSION: Planning and development of health workforce were influenced by specific political, social and economic conditions in Serbia.