15 April 2026—Mark your diaries for WHPA’s side event at WHA79, taking place on Tuesday 19 May in Geneva. Leaders from the health professions will discuss what it takes to reframe the narrative which sees investment in health as a cost, whereas in reality it yields strong returns for economies and societies. Perspectives from the next generation of health professionals will come from early career representatives of WHPA member organizations.
The evidence is clear: Every dollar invested in health systems generates returns of $2-4USD (1). Higher health workforce density is associated with longer life expectancy, improved productivity, and sustained economic growth.
Amid current uncertainties in global health financing, it is more important than ever to prioritize investment in health professionals. WHO estimates a projected shortfall of 11 million health workers by 2030, but studies have shown that addressing the workforce shortage requires more than adding workers. At this side event find out why investing specifically in well-educated health professionals is a cost-effective solution.
Make the most of your opportunity to network with the leadership of health professional organizations and stakeholders in global health attending the WHA, and to explore the evidence-based case to invest in health professionals.
Date: Tuesday 19 May 2026
Time: 18.00 – 20.30 CEST
Place: Salle Mont Blanc, Warwick Hotel, Geneva
14 rue de Lausanne, 1201 Geneva
..................................
(1) Remes, J., et al. (2020). ‘Prioritizing health: A prescription for prosperity’, McKinsey Global Institute. Available at: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/healthcare/our-insights/prioritizing-health-aprescription-for-prosperity