Brain Drain: Migration of Healthcare Professionals in a Globalized World

Abstract

Social, economic and technological developments due to globalization have led to a surge in international demand for skilled workforce. Developed economies have made concerted efforts in not only attracting but also in retaining such human capital. Healthcare sector has been no exception. With limited career opportunities within their own country and a host of pull factors in developed countries, India and other developing countries have seen an exodus of medical and other professionals, what is known as ‘Brain Drain’. Shortages thus resulting from migration of health workers have even mitigated the effects of increased domestic healthcare spending. The health workers hold strategic importance in a nation's health systems and disease control initiatives. The resulting imbalances could have a detrimental effect on the social as well as economic fabric of such sending countries. This study is an effort in understanding the factors encouraging human capital flight and thus seeking short-term and long-term measures in dealing with it. This research brings forth strategies to deal with brain drain by forming mutually beneficial relationships with the diasporas. This reciprocity will lead to circulation of skills between source and receiving countries. Formulating suitable policies would ensure correcting the human resource imbalances within countries on a sustainable basis.