A health manpower planning model for oil-rich developing nation

Abstract

Health manpower planning is a key component of health sector planning. It is crucially important for countries with scarce indigenous human resources, such as the oil-rich developing countries in the middle east. Most of these countries have adopted a policy of indigenisation. Health manpower planning models have evolved over the years, and the concepts and principles of these are generally applicable to any country. However, in view of the special characteristics and features of the oil-rich middle east countries, it is necessary to adapt and evolve a model with increased applicability to such settings. This paper presents an integrated computer-based model (already successfully implemented in an oilrich country), which enables simulation of alternative human resources and health system infrastructural strategies.