Policy options for a pan-Canadian mental health and substance use health workforce strategy

Abstract

Canada needs a systematically developed, fit-for-purpose Mental Health and Substance Use Health (MHSUH) workforce strategy to improve and coordinate planning across jurisdictions, provider types, and the public and private sectors. Guided by a pan-Canadian advisory committee, our project synthesized evidence and refined key priorities through a virtual policy dialogue. This article describes the insights generated at this dialogue and highlights the coordinated priority actions for a MHSUH workforce strategy for Canada. Specific actions are recommended under the following five priorities: (1) collect data for planning; (2) support the workforce; (3) target recruitment; (4) optimize and diversify roles; and (5) close policy gaps. This proposed strategy can inform effective workforce planning, foster the well-being of the MHSUH workforce, and facilitate retention and recruitment. Engagement from MHSUH system partners, including leaders from government, provider, and lived experience organizations, is essential to advancing this workforce strategy.