National Reporting Instrument 2024
Background
[INFOxNRI1]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[BGxINT]
Background
Adopted in 2010 at the 63rd World Health Assembly (WHA Res 63.16), the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (“the Code”) seeks to strengthen the understanding and ethical management of international health personnel recruitment through improved data, information, and international cooperation.
Article 7 of the Code encourages WHO Member States to exchange information on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel. The WHO Director General is mandated to report to the World Health Assembly every 3 years.
WHO Member States completed the 4th round of national reporting in May 2022. The WHO Director General reported progress on implementation to the 75th World Health Assembly in May 2022 (A75/14). The report on the fourth round highlighted the need to assess implications of health personnel emigration in the context of additional vulnerabilities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. For this purpose, the Expert Advisory Group on the relevance and effectiveness of the Code (A 73/9) was reconvened. Following the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Group, the Secretariat has published the WHO health workforce support and safeguards list 2023.
The National Reporting Instrument (NRI) is a country-based, self-assessment tool for information exchange and Code monitoring. The NRI enables WHO to collect and share current evidence and information on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel. The findings from the 5th round of national reporting will be presented to the Executive Board (EB156) in January 2025 in preparation for the 78th World Health Assembly.
The deadline for submitting reports is 31 August 2024.
Article 9 of the Code mandates the WHO Director General to periodically report to the World Health Assembly on the review of the Code’s effectiveness in achieving its stated objectives and suggestions for its improvement. In 2024 a Member-State led expert advisory group will be convened for the third review of the Code’s relevance and effectiveness. The final report of the review will be presented to the 78th World Health Assembly.
For any queries or clarifications on filling in the online questionnaire please contact us at WHOGlobalCode@who.int.
What is the WHO Global Code of Practice?
Disclaimer: The data and information collected through the National Reporting Instrument will be made publicly available via the NRI database (https://www.who.int/teams/health-workforce/migration/practice/reports-database) following the proceedings of the 78th World Health Assembly. The quantitative data will be used to inform the National Health Workforce Accounts data portal (http://www.apps.who.int/nhwaportal/).
Adopted in 2010 at the 63rd World Health Assembly (WHA Res 63.16), the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (“the Code”) seeks to strengthen the understanding and ethical management of international health personnel recruitment through improved data, information, and international cooperation.
Article 7 of the Code encourages WHO Member States to exchange information on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel. The WHO Director General is mandated to report to the World Health Assembly every 3 years.
WHO Member States completed the 4th round of national reporting in May 2022. The WHO Director General reported progress on implementation to the 75th World Health Assembly in May 2022 (A75/14). The report on the fourth round highlighted the need to assess implications of health personnel emigration in the context of additional vulnerabilities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. For this purpose, the Expert Advisory Group on the relevance and effectiveness of the Code (A 73/9) was reconvened. Following the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Group, the Secretariat has published the WHO health workforce support and safeguards list 2023.
The National Reporting Instrument (NRI) is a country-based, self-assessment tool for information exchange and Code monitoring. The NRI enables WHO to collect and share current evidence and information on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel. The findings from the 5th round of national reporting will be presented to the Executive Board (EB156) in January 2025 in preparation for the 78th World Health Assembly.
The deadline for submitting reports is 31 August 2024.
Article 9 of the Code mandates the WHO Director General to periodically report to the World Health Assembly on the review of the Code’s effectiveness in achieving its stated objectives and suggestions for its improvement. In 2024 a Member-State led expert advisory group will be convened for the third review of the Code’s relevance and effectiveness. The final report of the review will be presented to the 78th World Health Assembly.
For any queries or clarifications on filling in the online questionnaire please contact us at WHOGlobalCode@who.int.
What is the WHO Global Code of Practice?
Disclaimer: The data and information collected through the National Reporting Instrument will be made publicly available via the NRI database (https://www.who.int/teams/health-workforce/migration/practice/reports-database) following the proceedings of the 78th World Health Assembly. The quantitative data will be used to inform the National Health Workforce Accounts data portal (http://www.apps.who.int/nhwaportal/).
Disclaimer
[INFOxNRI2]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[disclaim]
Disclaimer
[1] Note: Case-based facility data collection as that in the WHO Global Bum Registry does not require WHO Member State approval.
[2] The world health report 2013: research for universal coverage. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2013 (http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/85761/2/9789240690837_eng.pdf)
[3] WHO statement on public disclosure of clinical trial results: Geneva: World Health Organization; 2015 (http://www.who.int/ictrp/results/en/, accessed 21 February 2018).
For more information on WHO Data Policy kindly refer to http://www.who.int/publishing/datapolicy/en/
[1] Note: Case-based facility data collection as that in the WHO Global Bum Registry does not require WHO Member State approval.
[2] The world health report 2013: research for universal coverage. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2013 (http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/85761/2/9789240690837_eng.pdf)
[3] WHO statement on public disclosure of clinical trial results: Geneva: World Health Organization; 2015 (http://www.who.int/ictrp/results/en/, accessed 21 February 2018).
For more information on WHO Data Policy kindly refer to http://www.who.int/publishing/datapolicy/en/
I have read and understood the WHO policy on the use and sharing of data collected by WHO in Member States outside the context of public health emergencies
Contact Details
[INFOxNRI3]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[CI]
Contact Details
Name of Member State:
Austria
Name of designated national authority:
Josef Baumgartner
Title of designated national authority:
Min.-Rat
Institution of the designated national authority:
Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection
Email:
riginao@who.int,josef.baumgartner@gesundheitsministerium.gv.at,who-health-personnel@bmg.gv.at,WHOGlobalCode@who.int
Telephone number :
+43171100644707
Contemporary issues
[INFOxNRI4]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[NRIxI]
The questions marked * are mandatory. The system will not allow submission until all mandatory questions are answered.
[INFOx1]
Contemporary issues on health personnel migration and mobility
[Q1x1]
In the past 3 years, has the issue of international recruitment of health personnel been a concern for your country?
Yes, and it is increasing in intensity
For example: • In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Minister of Labor and Economy. Representatives of various federal ministries and institutions are members of the strategy committee in order to increase closer cooperation between the relevant bodies. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK) is in charge of setting up a database for foreign qualifications in the care sector at federal level to serve as a contact point for standardized information in official procedures. Additionally, with regard to the recruitment of nursing and healthcare professionals, the BMSGPK is in charge of developing Austrian guidelines based on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (see here: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/medien/ministerraete/ministerraete-seit-dezember-2021/ulb-79a-1-dez.html). • On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection the new website "www.nursinginaustria.at"; was developed and went online in May 2024. The website serves as a central point of contact for nurses who have completed their training abroad (EU/EEA or third country) and would like to work as a nursing assistant level 1 and level 2 or as a nurse in Austria in the future. The website also serves as a central point of contact for those bodies (federal states/universities of applied sciences) that carry out nostrifications.
[Q1x2]
In the past 3 years, has the issue of international reliance on health personnel (international recruitment of health personnel to meet domestic needs) been a concern for your country?
Yes, and it is increasing in intensity
Several recent studies show that the number of health personnel in need is expected to be increasing in the next years and various solutions are being considered in this context. For example: • According to a recent study initiated by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection almost 17,000 additional nurses will be required by 2030 (over 12,000 in full-time equivalents) to maintain nurse-patient-ratios. By 2050, almost 77,000 additional nurses will be needed (or just under 57,000 in full-time equivalents) (see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/3378). • There are similar forecast studies for medical technical professions (physiotherapist, biomedical analyst, radiological technologist, dietitian, occupational therapist, logopaedist) (see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/1789) and for midwives (see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/3281). • There are also several forecast studies on the (sub-)national development of the supply of doctors until 2030 with focus on general practitioners (e.g. see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/197).
Health Personnel Education
[INFOxNRI5]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx2]
Health personnel education, employment and health system sustainability
[Q2]
Is your country taking measures to educate, employ and retain a health and care workforce that is appropriate for the specific conditions of your country, including areas of greatest need?
Yes
[Q2x1]
Please check all items that apply from the list below:
2.1 Measures taken to ensure the sustainability of the health and care workforce
2.2 Measures taken to address the geographical mal-distribution and retention of health and care workers*
2.3 Other relevant measures taken to educate, employ and retain a health and care workforce that is appropriate for the specific conditions of your country
[Q2x1x1]
2.1.1 Measures taken to ensure the sustainability of the health and care workforce
Forecasting future health and care workforce requirements to inform planning
There are many systematic health workforce planning documents and forecasts to investigate the health and care workforce requirements in Austria for different professions and regions and commissioned by various bodies. • For example, the federal states usually commission personnel requirement forecasts to external institutes or companies to monitor and plan training capacities in the nursing and healthcare professions. • On a national level there has been a recent update of a forecast study on health and care workforce planning (update until 2050) with a focus on the nursing professions published by the National Public Health institute (Gesundheit Österreich GmbH) on behalf of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (see here: URl: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/3378). • There are similar forecast studies for medical technical professions (physiotherapist, biomedical analyst, radiological technologist, dietitian, occupational therapist, logopaedist) (see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/1789) and for midwives (see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/3281). • There are also several forecast studies on the (sub-)national development of the supply of doctors until 2030 with focus on general practitioners (e.g. see here: https://jasmin.goeg.at/id/eprint/197). • Additionally, a recent Austrian agreement on the organization and financing of the healthcare system includes the following project: For the planning and management of required human resources, a supra-regional and cross-sectoral analysis of the current situation as well as an ongoing forecast of personnel and training requirements in the public healthcare system must be carried out. On this basis cross-sectoral measures are to be implemented. A valid, annually updated database (monitoring) must be ensured, in particular on the number of study and training places, persons in training and practitioners of the legally regulated healthcare professions (see here: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/2317)
Aligning domestic health and care workforce education with health system needs
• Concerning the nursing professions various innovative educational models in nursing were implemented in order to address the high demand for personnel. For example, educational models in nursing building on partnerships with secondary vocational schools as well as apprenticeship trainings in the nursing assistance professions have been developed and are being tested and evaluated. Concerning the initial education for nurses an upgrade from secondary level to universities of applied sciences is completed in 2024. There are various study locations in Austria, including in rural areas. • Moratorium on the unrestricted access to study medicine: Favourable admission to medical schools for Austrian citizens over other EU-citizens; • Concerning other health care professions like medical technical professions (physiotherapist, biomedical analyst, radiological technologist, dietitian, occupational therapist, logopaedist) or midwives, study programs are offered by universities of applied sciences at various study locations in Austria, including some in rural areas. • A Federal Target-Based Governance Agreement was first concluded in 2013 (and has been renewed and extended since then) where key players of the Austrian Health Care System jointly defined financial and health targets together with measures for achieving them. One set of measures aims to make general practice more attractive and also focuses on education and training in this context (see here: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Gesundheit/Gesundheitssystem/Gesundheitsreform-(Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit)/Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit---Monitoringberichte.html)
Improving quality of education and health personnel in alignment with service delivery needs
To ensure sustainable, high-quality health care based on service delivery needs, it is necessary to regularly adapt the legal basis of the healthcare professions to new requirements. The Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection is constantly working on the systematic and periodic adaptation and modernization of legally regulated healthcare professions in Austria and is also involving relevant stakeholders in these processes. The educational institutions (e.g. schools, universities of applied sciences and universities) that train health care professions are constantly taking various measures to ensure sustainable, high-quality health care based on service delivery needs. Austrian universities, where for example medical, dental and pharmacy studies are completed, bear the primary responsibility for quality in all their areas of work, quality assurance and development. Based on the Act on Quality Assurance in Higher Education (HS-QSG), the Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation Austria (AQ Austria) is responsible for carrying out accreditation procedures in Austria. Private university colleges, private universities and universities of applied sciences require accreditation as a prerequisite for state recognition. In accrediting a higher education institution, AQ Austria certifies that they have met the prerequisites for accreditation. Additionally, the AQ Austria supports higher education institutions in continuous quality enhancement and provides impulses for the further development of the higher education system. It also contributes to providing transparent information about the quality of higher education institutions in their service areas. (see further: https://www.aq.ac.at/en/).
Creating employment opportunities aligned with population health needs
For example: • With the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the European Commission aims to support the EU member states in cushioning the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and making Europe stronger and more resilient in the long term. Thanks to funding from the European Commission as part of the Austrian Recovery and Resilience Plan, around 116 pilot projects on community nursing are being implemented in Austria (see further: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/eu-aufbauplan/projekte/community-nursing.html). Community nurses are represented in all regions according to the urban-rural typology of Statistics Austria. Following international examples, community nurses in Austria should be needs-oriented and close to the population at community level. The service is aimed at older people living at home with an imminent or existing need for information, advice, care and/or support, as well as their caring relatives and families. A central element of this is the preventive home visit for people aged 75 and over. The aim is to strengthen the health literacy of the population, improve well-being and enable older people to remain in their own homes, not least by strengthening the self-help of those affected and their relatives. Additionally with the project migration out of the municipality is prevented and the data situation in the municipality is improved. (see also: www.cn-oesterreich.at; https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Pflege/Community-Nursing.html) • It is a major objective in Austria to strengthen primary care in order to ensure effective, sustainable and efficient healthcare and medical care. Strengthening primary care is also supported with funds from the European Commission as part of the Austrian Recovery and Resilience Plan (see further: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/eu-aufbauplan/projekte/primaerversorgung-erste-anlaufstelle-im-gesundheitssystem.html). Multi-professional and interdisciplinary primary care units are currently being established throughout Austria as an innovative form of primary care. In primary health care units general practitioners and qualified nurses work together in the core team. Depending on individual requirements in the area the teams are usually complemented by various other health care professionals like for example specialised doctors in pediatrics, clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, dietitians and social workers (see further: https://primaerversorgung.gv.at/).
Managing international recruitment of health personnel
For example: • In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Minister of Labor and Economy. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK) is in charge of setting up a database for foreign qualifications in the care sector at federal level to serve as a contact point for standardized information in official procedures. Additionally, with regard to the recruitment of nursing and healthcare professionals, the BMSGPK is in charge of developing Austrian guidelines based on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (see here: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/medien/ministerraete/ministerraete-seit-dezember-2021/ulb-79a-1-dez.html). • On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection the new website "www.nursinginaustria.at" was developed and went online in May 2024. The website serves as a central point of contact for nurses who have completed their training abroad (EU/EEA or third country) and would like to work as a nursing assistant level 1 or level 2 or as a nurse in Austria in the future. The website also serves as a central point of contact for those bodies (federal states/universities of applied sciences) that carry out nostrifications.
Improving management of health personnel
For example: • A recent Austrian agreement on the organization and financing of the healthcare system includes the following project which can lead to an improved general management of health personnel within the public healthcare system: For the planning and management of required human resources, a supra-regional and cross-sectoral analysis of the current situation as well as an ongoing forecast of personnel and training requirements in the public healthcare system must be carried out. On this basis cross-sectoral measures are to be implemented. A valid, annually updated database (monitoring) must be ensured, in particular on the number of study and training places, persons in training and practitioners of the legally regulated healthcare professions (see here: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/2317.) • Improvements of health personnel management on an individual level: There are various further education courses or training programs for healthcare professionals in Austria who want to pursue a career in healthcare management like for example master’s degrees in health care management or specialization programs for nurses preparing for management tasks such as management of the nursing service at a hospital.
Specific provisions on health personnel regulation and recruitment during emergencies
For example: • During the COVID-19 pandemic several regulations were established in order to facilitate foreign-trained health professionals to work in Austria. • Foreign-trained health professionals were able to work in their profession before undergoing compensation measures according to their decision on nostrification / recognition. • A nationwide health profession register has started in July 2018. 11 health care professions need to register before being authorised to exercise their professions. Their contact details are recorded in order to be able to contact them in case of emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic the obligatory registration in the nationwide health profession register was suspended in order to facilitate foreign-trained health professionals to work in Austria.
Others
[Q2x2x1]
Check all that apply for Measures taken to address the geographical mal-distribution and retention of health and care workers
2.2.1 Education
2.2.2 Regulation
2.2.3 Incentives
2.2.4 Support
[Q2x2x1x1]
2.2.1.1 Education Measure
Education institutions based in rural/underserved areas
For example the following measures: • Concerning the nursing professions various innovative educational models in nursing were implemented in order to address the high demand for personnel. For example, educational models in nursing building on partnerships with secondary vocational schools as well as apprenticeship trainings in the nursing assistance professions have been developed and are being tested and evaluated. Concerning the initial education for nurses an upgrade from secondary level to universities of applied sciences is completed in 2024. There are various study locations in Austria, including in rural areas. • Concerning other health care professions like medical technical professions (physiotherapist, biomedical analyst, radiological technologist, dietitian, occupational therapist, logopaedist) or midwives, study programs are offered by universities of applied sciences at various study locations in Austria, including some in rural areas. • A Federal Target-Based Governance Agreement was first concluded in 2013 (and has been renewed and extended since then) where key players of the Austrian Health Care System jointly defined financial and health targets together with measures for achieving them (see here: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Gesundheit/Gesundheitssystem/Gesundheitsreform-(Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit)/Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit---Monitoringberichte.html). One set of measures aims to increase the attractiveness of training facilities for medical students and postgraduates in rural and structurally weak regions.
Student intake from rural/underserved areas and communities
For example: • Concerning the nursing professions various innovative educational models in nursing were implemented in order to address the high demand for personnel. For example, educational models in nursing building on partnerships with secondary vocational schools as well as apprenticeship trainings in the nursing assistance professions have been developed and are being tested and evaluated. There are study and training locations all throughout Austria, including rural areas. • Concerning other health care professions like medical technical professions (physiotherapist, biomedical analyst, radiological technologist, dietitian, occupational therapist, logopedist) or midwives, study programs are offered by universities of applied sciences at various study locations in Austria, including some in rural areas.
Scholarships and subsidies for education
For example the following measures: • There are various subnational grants, scholarships and education subsidies for students in health professions in Austria, including some with return of service agreements. • Additionally, a new law „Pflegeausbildungs-Zweckzuschussgesetz, PAusbZG“ is intended to improve the financial situation of people completing training in the fields of nursing and care, thereby making nursing training more attractive. The law (PAusbZG) was passed in July 2022. The federal government pays special purpose grants to the federal states. The grants are used for monthly training contributions of at least € 600,-- for trainees in certain health and care professions like nursing profession and nursing assistance level 1 and 2 for their entire training period to secure their livelihood. (see here: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Pflege/Pflegepersonal.html) • E.g.: Federal state specific scholarship: The „Burgenland Medical Scholarship“ is a regular (monthly) financial support for students of human medicine, which is intended to make it easier for them to complete their studies. In return, the recipients commit themselves to work in the federal state of Burgenland for 5 years after completing their studies. (see also: https://www.burgenland.at/themen/gesundheit/medizinerinnen-und-medizinerfoerderungen/burgenlaendisches-medizin-stipendium-bms/)
Relevant topics/curricula in education and/or professional development programmes
For example: • Thanks to funding from the European Commission as part of the Austrian Recovery and Resilience Plan, around 116 pilot projects on community nursing are being implemented in Austria. Community nurses are represented in all regions according to the urban-rural typology of Statistics Austria. A special training series mainly for community nurses with focus on health needs in communities and also in rural areas has been developed. (see also: www.cn-oesterreich.at; https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Pflege/Community-Nursing.html) • The Early Childhood Interventions Programme in Austria provides e-learning for certain health care professions on all aspects of early intervention. Since 2015, regional networks for early childhood interventions (so-called "Frühe-Hilfen-Netzwerke") have been widespread in Austria. The roll-out was completed in autumn 2023 and regional networks are now available in all Austrian districts. The main objective of the Austrian model is to reach and support families in need (due to stressful living conditions or circumstances) during pregnancy or in the first three years of a child. “Frühe Hilfen” follows a multi-professional as well as multi-sectoral approach (investing in networking esp. with services from the health and social sector) to support families in raising healthy children. The programme is voluntary and ensures access of families through direct contact and through professionals, such as health and social workers, who can identify and refer them. (see: https://nzfh.at/english-information)
(Re)orientation of education programmes towards primary health care
It is a major objective in Austria to strengthen primary care in order to ensure effective, sustainable and efficient healthcare and medical care. Various post gradual or continuing education programmes with focus on primary health care have been developed in the last few years in Austria (see also: https://primaerversorgung.gv.at/weiterbildungen-der-primarversorgung).
Others
[Q2x2x2x1]
2.2.2.1 Regulation Measure
Scholarships and education subsidies with return of service agreements
There are various subnational scholarships and education subsidies for healthcare professions in Austria, including some with return of service agreements. For example the „Burgenland Medical Scholarship“ is a regular (monthly) financial support for students of human medicine, which is intended to make it easier for them to complete their studies. In return, the recipients commit themselves to work in the federal state of Burgenland for 5 years after completing their studies. (see also: https://www.burgenland.at/themen/gesundheit/medizinerinnen-und-medizinerfoerderungen/burgenlaendisches-medizin-stipendium-bms/)
Mandatory service agreements with health personnel that are not related to scholarships or education subsidies
Enhanced scope of practice of existing health personnel
• In order to ensure sustainable, high-quality health care based on service delivery needs, it is necessary to regularly adapt the legal basis of the healthcare professions to new requirements. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection is constantly working on the systematic and periodic adaptation and modernization of legally regulated healthcare professions in Austria, including enhancing scope of practice if necessary and suitable for the profession. • There is no specific scope of practice for rural areas, but health professions can be working to the top of scope of practice in rural areas.
Task sharing between different professions
For example: • Ongoing reorganisation of skill and grade mix in various settings for the nursing professions following an amendment to the Austrian Act on Nursing Care (including adaptations of scope of practice in nursing professions in 2024); • Various measures have been taken in order to expand Primary Health Care in rural areas, including the establishment of multi-professional and interdisciplinary primary care units throughout Austria as an innovative form of primary care.
Provisions for pathways to enter new or specialised practice after rural service
Others
[Q2x2x3x1]
2.2.3.1 Incentives Measure
Additional financial reimbursement
For example the following measures: • There is a new law „Entgelterhöhungs-Zweckzuschussgesetz (EEZG)“ that aims to ensure better pay for nursing and care staff. The federal government pays special purpose grants to the federal states. The special-purpose grants are used for pay increases in the nursing and care sector. (see also: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Pflege/Pflegepersonal.html) • Recently a start-up bonus of up to € 100,000,-- has been provided for 100 newly created doctor's positions or for doctor’s positions that are difficult to fill, e.g. in remote areas in general medicine, pediatrics, adolescent medicine and gynecology. • There are also federal state specific measures for making GP practice more attractive like start-up funding for GP positions.
Education opportunities
• There are various subnational scholarships and education subsidies and implacement foundations for healthcare professions in Austria, including some with return of service agreements. • The universities of applied sciences offer various study locations in Austria, including some in rural areas for various health professions. • A Federal Target-Based Governance Agreement was first concluded in 2013 (and has been renewed and extended since then) where key players of the Austrian Health Care System jointly defined financial and health targets together with measures for achieving them (see here: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Gesundheit/Gesundheitssystem/Gesundheitsreform-(Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit)/Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit---Monitoringberichte.html). One set of measures aims to increase the attractiveness of training facilities for medical students and postgraduates in rural and structurally weak regions. For example, one specific project in the federal state of Styria is called „Landarztzukunft“ („Future country doctor“): The Landarztzukunft project is an initiative of the Institute of General Practice and Evidence-Based Health Services Research at the Medical University of Graz to counteract the shortage of GPs, which is particularly prevalent in rural areas by inspiring students to become a rural doctor. In this project, three to five medical students live together in free accommodation during their internship with a country doctor, share an e-car and can take part in leisure activities and training events offered.
Opportunities for career advancement or professional growth
For example: • Paid educational leave and paid part-time educational leave allow employees to take advantage of training and further education measures in a flexible manner. • Permeability in education and training in nursing professions and other health care professions. • Thanks to funding from the European Commission as part of the Austrian Recovery and Resilience Plan, there are projects to implement community nurses in Austria and to strengthen primary healthcare by establishing multi-professional and inter-disciplinary primary care units in Austria. These projects are also opportunities for career advancement for health care professionals (for example with subsidies for further education or training, by creating jobs or by start-up financing).
Professional recognition
Healthcare professionals in Austria need formal recognition/nostrification as they are regulated professions for which statutory requirements exist and professional practice is only possible through formal proof of certain qualifications. Various measures have been taken to facilitate the process of professional recognition in Austria.
Social recognition
For example: • A recent Austrian agreement on the organization and financing of the healthcare system includes the following project: In order to ensure the sustainability and attractiveness of the healthcare professions, a comprehensive package of measures is to be jointly developed and implemented by the target management partners by the end of 2024 at the latest (see here: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/2317). • There are various (sub-)national image campaigns for certain health care professions to attract career starters, career changers and returnees from various target groups. • Various (sub-)national measures are being undertaken in order to strengthen the professional image of general practitioners within the medical profession and spreading information on the advantages of becoming a general practitioner. • E.g. Good practice award for community nursing (see here: https://cn-oesterreich.at/gewinnerprojekte-good-practice-award-2024)
Opportunity for pathways to permanent residency and/or citizenship for international health personnel
For qualified third country workers (all citizens of countries that are not members of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss citizens) and their family members a flexible immigration model, the Red-White-Red Card, offers a single permit for working and settling permanently in Austria. Third-country citizen may apply for a Red-White-Red Card as a Skilled Worker in a Shortage Occupation valid for 24 months under specific circumstances. With the Austrian Shortage Occupation List various health care professions are deemed shortage profession (see also: Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations (migration.gv.at)). Healthcare professionals need formal recognition/nostrification as they are regulated professions for which statutory requirements exist and professional practice is only possible through formal proof of certain qualifications.
Others
[Q2x2x4x1]
2.2.4.1 Support Measure
Decent and safe working conditions
For example concerning the nursing professions (see here: https://nursinginaustria.at/en/general-requirements): • High demand and varied career opportunities: Currently, there are many job openings for nursing professionals on the Austrian job market. New career paths have emerged, such as community nursing or school nursing. Investments in education and the expansion of competencies within the field of nursing characterize recent developments in Austrian healthcare. • Relief week: Nurses and nursing assistants at levels 2 and 1 who have reached the age of 43 receive an additional relief week, regardless of how long they have been working for their employer. • Night shift compensation: Staff working in long-term inpatient care facilities receive two hours of time credit per night shift. • Facilitated recognition for foreign nurses: The recognition process for foreign qualifications has been streamlined. Nurses now have easier access to the Red-White-Red Card for work permits. • Permeability in education and training in nursing professions.; There is also a large number of federal state specific measures for making GP practice more attractive like job-sharing models, mentoring programs or the granting of start-up funding for GP positions. In addition, measures are being taken to further develop the GP on-call service in terms of working hours and remuneration models.
Decent and safe living conditions
For example • Some institutions provide staff-housing or support in finding flats for health professionals. In some federal states, doctors in basic training are for example offered affordable accommodation in rural regions, and some clinic locations also offer childcare in their own kindergartens. Joint leisure activities facilities are available at some clinics.
Distance learning/e-learning opportunities
For example: • Some educational institutions offer further education for health professionals that are mostly or partly completed online (e.g. courses for „Advanced nursing practice“ or „Primary health care“). • The Early Childhood Interventions Programme in Austria provides e-learning for certain health care professions on all aspects of early intervention. Since 2015, regional networks for early childhood interventions (so-called "Frühe-Hilfen-Netzwerke") have been widespread in Austria. The roll-out was completed in autumn 2023 and regional networks are now available in all Austrian districts. The main objective of the Austrian model is to reach and support families in need (due to stressful living conditions or circumstances) during pregnancy or in the first three years of a child. “Frühe Hilfen” follows a multi-professional as well as multi-sectoral approach (investing in networking esp. with services from the health and social sector) to support families in raising healthy children. The programme is voluntary and ensures access of families through direct contact and through professionals, such as health and social workers, who can identify and refer them. (see here: https://nzfh.at/english-information) • Thanks to funding from the European Commission as part of the Austrian Recovery and Resilience Plan, around 116 pilot projects on community nursing are being implemented in Austria. A special training series mainly for community nurses with focus on health needs in communities and also in rural areas has been developed.
Others
[Q3x1]
Are there specific policies and/or laws that guide international recruitment, migration and integration of foreign-trained health personnel in your country?
Yes
[Q3x1x1]
Please provide further information in the box below:
Law/policy 1
Directive 2005/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005 on the recognition of professional qualifications (https://www.eshg.org/fileadmin/eshg/EBMG/CLG/Direttiva_36_EN.pdf)
Law/policy 2
Directive 2013/55/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 November 2013 amending Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications and Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012 on administrative cooperation through the Internal Market Information System (‘the IMI Regulation’) (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32013L0055&from=EN)
Law/policy 3
Federal Act on the Simplification of Procedures for the Recognition and Assessment of Foreign Educational and Professional Qualifications (Recognition and Assessment Act: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/Erv/ERV_2016_1_55/ERV_2016_1_55.pdf); Foreign Educational and Professional Qualifications concerning health care professions: The shortened occupational licence procedure (one-stop) is the fastest way to obtain an occupational licence for a health care profession in Austria. If the necessary documents are submitted, the recognition can be received within one hour (Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, website: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Gesundheit/Medizin-und-Gesundheitsberufe/Anerkennung-(Berufe)/Anerkennung-einer-ausl%C3%A4ndischen-Berufsqualifikation-in-einem-nicht%C3%A4rztlichen-Gesundheitsberuf.html).
[Q3x2]
Are there any policies and/or provision for international telehealth services in your country through health personnel based abroad?
No
[Q3x3]
Has your country established a database or compilation of laws and regulations related to international health personnel recruitment and migration and, as appropriate, information related to their implementation?
No
[Q4]
Recognizing the role of other government entities, does the Ministry of Health have mechanisms (e.g. policies, processes, unit) to monitor and coordinate across sectors on issues related to the international recruitment and migration of health personnel?
Yes
[Q4x1]
Please describe
For example:
• In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Minister of Labor and Economy. Representatives of various federal ministries and institutions are members of the strategy committee in order to increase closer cooperation between the relevant bodies. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK) is in charge of setting up a database for foreign qualifications in the care sector at federal level to serve as a contact point for standardized information in official procedures. Additionally, with regard to the recruitment of nursing and healthcare professionals, the BMSGPK is in charge of developing Austrian guidelines based on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (see here: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/medien/ministerraete/ministerraete-seit-dezember-2021/ulb-79a-1-dez.html).
• For the nursing professions: On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection the new website "www.nursinginaustria.at" was developed and went online in May 2024. The website serves as a central point of contact for nurses who have completed their training abroad (EU/EEA or third country) and would like to work as a nursing assistant level 1 or level 2 or as a nurse in Austria in the future.
The website also serves as a central point of contact for those bodies (federal states/universities of applied sciences) that carry out nostrifications. For the authorities, the information on the website serves to simplify and standardize the process. The database bundles knowledge and provides information. The aim is to achieve a common perspective in the assessment of foreign training courses, particularly for nurses.
[Q5]
Please describe the steps taken by your country to implement the following Code recommendations.
Check all items that apply from the list below:
Check all items that apply from the list below:
5.1 Measures have been taken or are being considered to introduce changes to laws or policies on health personnel consistent with the recommendations of the Code.
In 2017 the Federal Act on the Registration of Healthcare Professions was passed in Austria. According to the Act, health personnel of 11 health care professions need to register before being authorised to exercise their professions. The register operates in addition to other health care professions‘ registers that already dispose of registration data. The register started to operate in July 2018 and was completed for all health professionals who already practice their professions by the end of 2019. Since 2019 new entrants to the labour market are continuously added to the register. Entry in the register of healthcare professionals is valid for five years. After this period, the professional license must be renewed. The first renewal wave is currently taking place.
5.2 Actions have been taken to communicate and share information across
sectors on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel, as well as to publicize the Code, among relevant ministries, departments and agencies,
nationally and/or sub-nationally.
sectors on the international recruitment and migration of health personnel, as well as to publicize the Code, among relevant ministries, departments and agencies,
nationally and/or sub-nationally.
• In 2015 the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection informed the Federal States in Austria about the WHO Code and asked them to spread the information in all relevant regional institutions in the health care sector and to take into account the recommendations concerning the ethical international recruitment of health personnel. • In order to additionally spread information about the WHO Code nationwide a report on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel of the Austrian National Public Health Institute (Gesundheit Österreich GmbH) was published on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection in January 2016. • With regard to the recruitment of nursing and healthcare professionals, the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection is currently in charge of developing Austrian guidelines based on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel (see here: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/medien/ministerraete/ministerraete-seit-dezember-2021/ulb-79a-1-dez.html).
5.3 Measures have been taken to consult stakeholders in decision-making
processes and/or involve them in activities related to the international recruitment of health personnel.
processes and/or involve them in activities related to the international recruitment of health personnel.
• In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Minister of Labor and Economy. Representatives of various federal ministries and institutions are members of the Strategy Committee in order to increase closer cooperation between the relevant bodies. • Measures concerning the nursing professions: An interactive guide on the new website www.nursinginaustria.at directs to the relevant authorities for a nostrification or recognition. By involving relevant stakeholders, working together on the website‘s content and sharing experiences, problems can be identified, analysed and solutions can be found. The aim is to speed up the nostrification process in the long term and achieve greater uniformity in the process through mutual learning. Depending on the nursing profession, nostrification and recognition procedures are carried out either by the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, Austrian universities of applied sciences or by the local offices of the regional government responsible for such matters.
5.4 Records are maintained on all private recruitment agencies for health
personnel authorized by competent authorities to operate within their jurisdiction.
personnel authorized by competent authorities to operate within their jurisdiction.
5.5 Good practices, as called for by the Code, are encouraged and promoted among private recruitment agencies.
5.5a Promotion of the Code among private recruitment agencies.
5.5b Domestic legislation or policy requiring ethical practice of private recruitment agencies, as consistent with the principles and articles of the Code.
5.5c Public or private certification of ethical practice for private recruitment agencies.
5.5d Others
5.6 None of the above
Government Agreements
[INFOxNRI6]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx3]
Government-to-Government agreements on migration or mobility of health personnel
[Q6]
Has your country or sub-national governments entered into any bilateral, multilateral, or regional agreements and/or arrangements with respect to the international recruitment and/or mobility of health personnel?
Yes
[Q6x1xA]
Please use the table below to describe each of the active bilateral, regional or multilateral agreements or arrangements:
| a. Title of Agreement | b. Type of Agreement | |
|---|---|---|
| Agreement 1 | Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | 1 |
| Agreement 2 | Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 |
| Agreement 3 | Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 |
| Agreement 4 | ||
| Agreement 5 | ||
| Agreement 6 | ||
| Agreement 7 | ||
| Agreement 8 | ||
| Agreement 9 | ||
| Agreement 10 | ||
| Agreement 11 | ||
| Agreement 12 | ||
| Agreement 13 | ||
| Agreement 14 | ||
| Agreement 15 |
Government Agreements - 6.1 A
[INFOxNRI7]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[Q6x1xAx1]
c. Countries involved
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
AUT,IND
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
AUT,PHL
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
AUT,IDN
[Q6x1xAx2]
d. Coverage
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
National
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
National
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
National
[Q6x1xAx3]
e. Main focus of agreement (check all that apply)
| Education and training | Health cooperation | Promotion of circular migration | Philanthropy or technical support | Qualification recognition | Recruitment of health personnel | Trade in services | Others | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 | 1 | ||||||
[Q6x1xAx3xoth]
If other mechanism in main focus of agreement (Please specify:)
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
For example, with the agreement the exchange of information regarding immigration opportunities for qualified workers under the Austrian "Red-White-Red Card" will be promoted and cooperation in the field of vocational training will be established. [Note: Austria’s Red-White-Red – Card offers a residence permit for third-country nationals who would like to work as skilled employees in Austria and want to stay in Austria on a permanent basis.] The agreement also aims at facilitating the exchange between students in India and Austria as well as rapid visa processing, especially for journalists and researchers. Moreover, the migration and mobility partnership includes the creation of an Austrian-Indian Working Holiday Programme. This will give young people a chance to take on short-term, temporary jobs in the target country or to utilise educational institutions without a work permit.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
[Q6x1xAx4]
f. Categories of Health Personnel (check all that apply)
| Doctors | Nurses | Midwives | Dentists | Pharmacists | Other occupations | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | 1 | |||||
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 | |||||
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 1 | |||||
[Q6x1xAx4xoth]
Please specify category of health personnel:
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
not specified
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
not specified
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
not specified
[Q6x1xAx5]
g. Validity period
| Start Year | End Year | |
|---|---|---|
| Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | 2023 | no end year defined |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 2023 | effective for five years and will be automatically extended for a similar period unless suspended or cancelled |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 2024 | effective for five years and will be automatically extended for a similar period unless suspended or cancelled |
[Q6x1xAx6]
h. Signatory of the agreement from your country
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Others:
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Others:
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Others:
[Q6x1xAx6xoth]
If other signatory of the agreement from your country(Please specify:)
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Austrian Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Austrian Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Austrian Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy
[Q6x1xAx6x1]
If Ministry of Health is not a signatory, did the Ministry of Health participate in the development of the agreement?
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
No
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
No
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
No
[Q6x1xAx7]
i. Signatory of the agreement from the partner country (ies)
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Others:
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Others:
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Others:
[Q6x1xAx7xoth]
If other signatory of the agreement from your country(Please specify:)
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Department of Migrant Workers of the Philippine government
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Ministry of Manpower, Republic of Indonesia
[Q6x1xAx7x1]
If Ministry of Health is not a signatory, did the Ministry of Health participate in the development of the agreement?
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Don’t Know
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Don’t Know
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Don’t Know
[Q6x1xAx8]
j. Content of agreement
[Q6x1xAx8x1]
j.i. Does the agreement include elements to benefit the health system of your country and the partner country(ies)?
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Yes, has elements to
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes, has elements to
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes, has elements to
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
benefit the health system of my country and partner country(ies)
[Q6x1xAx8x1x]
Please explain:
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
For example, the agreement aims to facilitate the exchange and admission of students in Austria and India and the acquisition of initial professional experience and on the immigration for purpose of taking up employment for qualified workers. It also focuses on the cooperation in vocational education and training, for example including joint projects in India in the field of vocational education and training with the focus on a dual system of vocational training and skill developement in new, innovative and sustainable technologies. Note: As the agreement has only been signed in 2023, the effects are not yet fully apparent.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
• For Austria: E.g.: The Memorandum of Understanding serves as a framework for collaboration between the Government of the Republic of Austria and Government of the Republic of the Philippines, in the area of migration focusing on the labour market as well as exploring possible forms of cooperation in the field of skilled workforce, in accordance with the Republic of Austria's latest Shortage Occupation List and the legal framework conditions of both participants. ln this sense, this MoU is intended to provide the basis for increased government cooperation to support Filipino professionals and skilled workers who want to work in the Republic of Austria. Note: With the Austrian Shortage Occupation List various health care professions are deemed shortage professions. • For the Philippines: E.g.: Technical capacity-building initiatives; Other relevant technical and human resource development cooperation and continuing studies in the area of labour; Drawing up of an action agenda with respect to addressing the improvement of education and training, protection of the rights and promotion of the welfare of Filipino migrant workers. Note: As the MoU has only been signed in 2023, the effects are not yet fully apparent.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
• For Austria: E.g.: The Memorandum of Understanding serves as a framework for collaboration between the Government of the Republic of Austria and Government of the Republic of Indonesia, in the area of migration focusing on the labour market as well as exploring possible forms of cooperation in the field of skilled workforce, in accordance with the Republic of Austria's latest Shortage Occupation List and the legal framework conditions of both Participants. Note: With the Austrian Shortage Occupation List various health care professions are deemed shortage professions. • For Indonesia: E.g.: Technical capacity-building initiatives; Other relevant technical and human resource development cooperation and continuing studies in the area of labour; Drawing up of an action agenda with respect to addressing the improvement of education and training, protection of the rights and promotion of the welfare of Indonesian migrant workers. Note: As the MoU has only been signed in 2024, the effects are not yet fully apparent.
[Q6x1xAx8x2]
j.ii. Does the agreement include elements on health worker rights and welfare?
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Yes
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes
[Q6x1xAx8x2x]
Please explain:
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
E.g.: Concerning immigration for the purpose of taking up employment: The Government of the Republic of India and the Austrian Federal Government „[…] undertake to encourage the safe, orderly and regular mobility of qualified workers between the two countries in accordance with their respective rules on entry, residence and work of foreigners […] The persons to whom the provisions of this Article apply benefit from equal treatment as accorded to host state nationals in all matters relating to the enforcement of laws, regulations, collective wage agreements and customs governing working conditions, national insurance, health, hygiene and workplace safety, within the framework of applicable national and European Union Law. Their employer shall at least pay them a salary equivalent to the salary paid to host nationals working under the same conditions.“
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
E.g.: Regulation on the deployment of labour with a view to a fair, ethical and sustainable recruitment and employment of professionals and skilled workers from the Republic of the Philippines, taking into consideration the national demand for professionals and skilled workers in the respective field vis-a-vis the number of professionals and skilled workers in the Republic of the Philippines.; Access to all necessary measures that extend legal assistance and social protection to professionals and skilled workers in accordance with the applicable national laws and regulations of both countries.; Filipino professionals and skilled workers will not be employed in the Republic of Austria under working conditions less favourable than those for comparable Austrian professionals and skilled workers.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
E.g: Regulation on the deployment of labour with a view to a fair, ethical and sustainable recruitment and employment of professionals and skilled workers from the Republic of Indonesia, taking into consideration the national demand for professionals and skilled workers in the respective field vis-a-vis the number of professionals and skilled workers in the Republic of Indonesia.; Access to all necessary measures that extend legal assistance and social protection to professionals and skilled workers in accordance with the applicable national laws and regulations of both countries.; Indonesian professionals and skilled workers will not be employed in the Republic of Austria under working conditions less favourable than those for comparable Austrian professionals and skilled workers.
Government Agreements - 6.1 B
[INFOxNRI8]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[Q6x1xB]
Please use the table below to describe the implementation of each of the active bilateral, regional or multilateral agreements or arrangements
[Q6x1xBx1]
Has the agreement been implemented?
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Yes
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Yes
[Q6x1xBx1x1]
| Start year of implementation: | |
|---|---|
| Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | 2023 |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 2023 |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | 2024 |
[Q6x1xBx2a]
How many health personnel have left or entered your country through this agreement since its implementation?
Agreement: Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Agreement: Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
| Number of personnel | |
|---|---|
| Doctors | |
| Nurses | |
| Midwives | |
| Dentists | |
| Pharmacists | |
| not specified | Since the agreement has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present. |
[Q6x1xBx2b]
How many health personnel have left or entered your country through this agreement since its implementation?
Agreement: Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Agreement: Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
| Number of personnel | |
|---|---|
| Doctors | |
| Nurses | |
| Midwives | |
| Dentists | |
| Pharmacists | |
| not specified | Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present. |
[Q6x1xBx2c]
How many health personnel have left or entered your country through this agreement since its implementation?
Agreement: Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Agreement: Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
| Number of personnel | |
|---|---|
| Doctors | |
| Nurses | |
| Midwives | |
| Dentists | |
| Pharmacists | |
| not specified | Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2024, this question cannot be answered at present. |
[Q6x1xBx3]
Please explain if and how has the health system of your country benefitted from the agreement.
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Since the agreement has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2024, this question cannot be answered at present.
[Q6x1xBx4]
Please describe if and how the health system of other country(ies) has benefitted from the agreement.
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Since the agreement has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2024, this question cannot be answered at present.
[Q6x1xBx5]
Please explain if and how the provisions on health workers rights and welfare were implemented.
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Since the agreement has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2023, this question cannot be answered at present.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Since the Memorandum of Unterstanding has only been signed in 2024, this question cannot be answered at present.
[Q6x1xBx6]
Please provide any other relevant information on the agreement (e.g., context, positive elements, gaps and lessons learnt).
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers
[Q6x1xBx7]
Full text of the agreement and associated documents (implementation plan, progress report, implementation report, evaluation report, etc.)
| Upload document(s) | |
|---|---|
| Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership | |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | |
| Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republik of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Recruitment of Professionals and Skilled Workers | |
[Q6x1xBx7xfile1]
Agreement between the Austrian Federal Government and the Government of the Republic of India on a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership
No comment
[Q6x1xBx7xfile2]
MoU Philippines
No comment
[Q6x1xBx7xfile3]
MoU Indonesia
No comment
[Q6x1xBx7xfile4]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile5]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile6]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile7]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile8]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile9]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile10]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile11]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile12]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile13]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile14]
[Q6x1xBx7xfile15]
Responsibilities, rights and recruitment practices
[INFOxNRI9]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx4]
Responsibilities, rights and recruitment practices
[Q7]
If your country employs/hosts international health personnel to work in the health and care sectors, which legal safeguards and/or other mechanisms are in place for migrant health personnel and to ensure that enjoy the same legal rights and responsibilities as the domestically trained health workforce?
Please check all items that apply from the list below:
Please check all items that apply from the list below:
Migrant health personnel are recruited using mechanisms that allow them to assess the benefits and risk associated with employment positions and to make timely and informed decisions on the employment.
• On the website www.migration.gv.at, there are all essential information about the Red-White-Red Card, explanations of other requirements for work and settlement and a comprehensive overview of living and working conditions in Austria. • For example concerning the nursing professions, information on working conditions can be found on the new website www.nursinginaustria.at, which informs about the process of nostrification or recognition in Austria and directs to the relevant authorities.
Migrant health personnel are hired, promoted and remunerated based on objective criteria such as levels of qualification, years of experience and degrees of professional responsibility on the same basis as the domestically trained health workforce.
For example: Concerning the nursing professions, nostrification and recognition procedures are carried out either by the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, Austrian universities of applied sciences or by the local offices of the regional government responsible for such matters. By creating the new website www.nursinginaustria.at the aim is to speed up the nostrification process in the long term and achieve greater uniformity in the process through mutual learning.
Migrant health personnel enjoy the same opportunities as the domestically trained health workforce to strengthen their professional education, qualifications and career progression.
As soon as the process of recognition of professional qualification is completed, migrant health personnel have the same rights and obligations concerning their professions as the domestically trained health workforce.
Institutional arrangements are in place to ensure safe migration/ mobility and integration of migrant health personnel.
Some examples: • There are various prequalification courses for migrants which are designed to facilitate their entrance into vocational training and professions in the health and care sector. E.g. Project „Migrants care“ (Migrants Care - BAG (freiewohlfahrt.at). • A website of the Austrian Integration Fund – Fund for the integration of refugees and migrants (ÖIF) (https://www.berufsanerkennung.at/en/) provides information on the process of recognition of professional qualifications in various languages. Using an online tool foreign-trained or immigrant health personnel can find the right contact person in just a few steps. • „Mentoring for Migrants” is a joint initiative of the Austrian Integration Fund, the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, and the AMS job market service. The goal is to bring together experienced individuals from the business world – mentors – and people from a migrant background – mentees – and help them become integrated into the Austrian labour market. Mentors and mentees spend about six months working through activities together to enter the labour market. As experienced businesspeople, mentors can give their partners valuable assistance, advice, and put them in touch with the right people (https://www.integrationsfonds.at/weiterbildung/mentoring-fuer-migrantinnen/).
Measures have been taken to promote circular migration of international health personnel
In Austria, the practice of circular migration is especially applied for personal assistants from abroad (regulated in the Austrian „Home Care Act“ (Hausbetreuungsgesetz)) although they are by definition no health professionals in Austria.
Other measures (including legal and administrative) for fair recruitment and employment practices of foreign-trained and/or immigrant health personnel (please provide details)
Some examples: • More information on the process of recognition of professional qualifications in English is available for healthcare professionals from abroad on the website of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research. (https://www.bmbwf.gv.at/en/Topics/Higher-education---universities/Recognition-of-qualifications.html) • More information on the rights of migrants and on the life in Austria and services for migrants in various languages is available on the websites https://www.migrant.at/en/ and https://www.migration.gv.at/en/living-and-working-in-austria/ (website provided across sectors and ministries). • Healthcare professionals from abroad have the opportunity to receive financial support, for example for the documents and translations required for nostrification. (see also: https://www.integrationsfonds.at/der-oeif/presse/detail/oeif-integrationsservice-fuer-fachkraefte-foerdert-ab-sofort-nostrifizierung-mitgebrachter-qualifikationen-im-gesundheitsbereich-19428/) • Concerning the nursing professions: As part of the nursing reform packages, measures were adopted to facilitate nurses with training acquired abroad to the labour market and at the same time ensure the high Austrian quality standards. For example, since 2022 nurses and nursing assistants level 2 with a certificate of nostrification are under specific conditions allowed to practice in the lower-threshold nursing profession (nurses as nursing assistants level 2 and nursing assistants level 2 as nursing assistants level 1) for a limited period of two years until the compensation measures have been completed. Also nursing assistants level 1 with a certificate of nostrification have the opportunity to work under guidance and supervision for a limited period of 2 years until they have completed the compensation measures.
No measures in place
Not applicable – does not host/employ foreign health personnel
[Q8]
If health personnel from your country are working abroad in the health and care sectors, please provide information on measures that have been taken or are planned in your country to ensure their fair recruitment and employment; safe migration; return; and diaspora utilization in your country, as well as difficulties encountered.
Please check all items that apply from the list below:
Please check all items that apply from the list below:
Arrangements for fair recruitment
The Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection is supporting emigrant health personnel to meet the requirements for recognitions of professional qualifications in other countries. The Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection is also stepping in when Austrians encounter major difficulties in the process of recruitment in other countries.
Arrangements for decent employment contracts and working conditions in destination countries
There are several informative Austrian or European websites on the subject „working abroad“, for example: • https://www.ams.at/arbeitsuchende/topicliste/arbeiten-im-ausland • https://www.ams.at/arbeitsuchende/arbeiten-in-oesterreich-und-der-eu/laender-portraits • https://eures.europa.eu/index_de
Arrangements for safe mobility
Arrangements for return and reintegration to the health labour market in your country
There are several special refresher programs for health personnel who wish to return to work after a break (usually after parental leave). The Austrian Public Employment Service also offers consulting services for job seekers. (https://www.ams.at/arbeitsuchende/arbeitslos-was-tun/beratung-im-ams)
Arrangements for diaspora engagement to support your country health system
Other
No measures in place
Not applicable – health personnel from my country are not working abroad
International migration
[INFOxNRI10]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx5]
International migration and mobility pathways for health personnel
[Q9x1]
9.1 If your country hosts international health personnel to work in the health and care sector, how do they come to your country? (check all that apply)
| Direct (individual) application for education, employment, trade, immigration or entry in country |
Government to government agreements that allow health personnel mobility |
Private recruitment agencies or employer facilitated recruitment |
Private education/ immigration consultancies facilitated mobility |
Other pathways (please specify) | Which pathway is used the most? Please include quantitative data if available. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctors | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | There are currently no systematic records on the entrance modality of health professionals from abroad. | |
| Nurses | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Midwives | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Dentists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Pharmacists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
[Q9x1oth]
[Q9x2]
9.2 If health personnel from your country work/study abroad, how do they leave your country?
(check all that apply)
| Direct (individual) application for education, employment, trade, immigration, or entry in the destination country |
Government to government agreements that allow health personnel mobility |
Private recruitment agencies or employer facilitated recruitment |
Private education/ immigration consultancies facilitated mobility |
Other pathways (please specify) | Which pathway is used the most? Please include quantitative data if available. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctors | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | There are currently no systematic records on how health professionals leave the country to work abroad. | |
| Nurses | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Midwives | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Dentists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Pharmacists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Other occupations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
[Q9x2oth]
Recruitment & migration
[INFOxNRI11]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx6]
Data on international health personnel recruitment & migration
Improving the availability and international comparability of data is essential to understanding and addressing the global dynamic of health worker migration. Please consult with your NHWA focal point, if available, to ensure that data reported below is consistent with NHWA reporting*.
(The list of NHWA focal points is available here. Please find the focal point(s) for your country from the list and consult with them.)
For countries reporting through the WHO-Euro/EuroStat/OECD Joint data collection process, please liaise with the JDC focal point.
[Q10]
Does your country have any mechanism(s) or entity(ies) to maintain statistical records of foreign-born and foreign-trained health personnel?
Yes
[Q10x1]
Where are the records maintained? (check all that apply)
Employment records or work permits
Ministry of health personnel database
Registry of health personnel authorized to practice
Other
[Q10x2]
Does the record include gender-disaggregated data on the foreign-born and/or foreign-trained health personnel?
Yes
Inflow and outflow of health personnel
[INFOxNRI12]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx7]
Inflow and outflow of health personnel
[Q11]
Do you have a mechanism to monitor the inflow and outflow of health personnel to/from your country? (check all that apply)
Inflow
Outflow
No
[Q11xI]
If yes for inflow:
Fill in the table below
[Q11x1]
How many foreign-trained or foreign-born health personnel were newly active (temporarily and/or permanently) in your country in the past three years (inflow)?
| Doctors | Nurses | Midwives | Dentists | Pharmacists | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 207 | 762 | 18 | |||
| 2022 | 253 | 774 | 15 | 55 | ||
| 2023 | 280 | 1016 | 22 | 28 | ||
| Data Source (e.g. Regulatory authority, immigration records, work permits, etc.) | Austrian Medical Chamber: The official register "Ärzteliste" | Austrian health professions register | Österreichisches Hebammengremium (mid-wives) | Austrian Dental Chamber | no data available |
[Q11xO]
If yes for outflow:
Fill in the table below
[Q11x2]
How many domestically trained health personnel left your country in the past years for temporary or permanent migration (outflow)?
| Doctors | Nurses | Midwives | Dentists | Pharmacists | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5 | |||||
| 2022 | 3 | |||||
| 2023 | 2 | |||||
| Data Source (e.g. letters of good standing, emigration records, government to government agreements etc.) | no data available | no data available | Österreichisches Hebammengremium (mid-wives) | no data available | no data available |
[Q11x3]
If you have any document with information on health worker inflows and outflows for your country, please upload
Stock of health personnel
[INFOxNRI13]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx8]
Stock of health personnel
[Q12x1]
Consolidated stock on health personnel, disaggregated by place of training and birth
For the latest year available, consistent with the National Health Workforce Accounts (NHWA) Indicators 1-07 and 1-08, please provide information on the total stock of health personnel in your country (preferably the active workforce), disaggregated by the place of training (foreign-trained) and the place of birth (foreign-born).
For the latest year available, consistent with the National Health Workforce Accounts (NHWA) Indicators 1-07 and 1-08, please provide information on the total stock of health personnel in your country (preferably the active workforce), disaggregated by the place of training (foreign-trained) and the place of birth (foreign-born).
[Q12x1a]
Please provide data on the stock of active health personnel in your country by one of the following ways:
Fill in the table below
[Q12x1x1]
| Medical Doctors (generalist + specialists) | 41644 | 38517 | 3127 | 568 | 2559 | 36402 | 5242 | Austrian Medical Chamber: The official register "Ärzteliste" | 2023 | 1 | |
| Nurses | 111563 | 96305 | 15258 | 4171 | 11087 | 98350 | 13213 | Austrian health professions register | 2023 | 1 | data represent health worker licensed to practice |
| Midwives | 2750 | 2360 | 390 | 61 | 329 | 2326 | 424 | Österreichisches Hebammengremium (midwives) | 2024 | 1 | |
| Dentists | 5358 | 4031 | 1327 | 214 | 1113 | 3603 | 1755 | Austrian dental chamber ("Zanhärzteliste) | 2024 | 1 | |
| Pharmacists | no data available |
[Q12x1x1x]
If you have any document with information on stock of active health personnel for your country, their distribution by place of training and place of birth, please upload
Jahresbericht Gesundheitsberuferegister 2023 / Annual report: Health professions register 2023
This annual report provides information on nurses (see pages 24-26 in particular).
[Q12x2]
Please provide data on the top 10 countries of training for foreign-trained health personnel in your country.
This information can be provided by one of the following two options:
This information can be provided by one of the following two options:
Fill in the table below
[Q12x2x1]
| Doctors | Nurses | Midwives | Dentists | Pharmacists | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total foreign trained personnel | 3127 | 15258 | 390 | 1327 | |
| Country 1: Top country of training | DEU | DEU | DEU | DEU | |
| Country 1: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 2096 | 3719 | 159 | 448 | |
| Country 2: Top country of training | HUN | SVK | POL | HUN | |
| Country 2: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 250 | 2147 | 45 | 236 | |
| Country 3: Top country of training | SVK | HUN | SVK | ROU | |
| Country 3: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 127 | 1157 | 35 | 150 | |
| Country 4: Top country of training | CHE | ROU | IRN | POL | |
| Country 4: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 99 | 1060 | 21 | 47 | |
| Country 5: Top country of training | CZE | BIH | HUN | SYR | |
| Country 5: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 86 | 961 | 21 | 47 | |
| Country 6: Top country of training | HRV | POL | CZE | HRV | |
| Country 6: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 80 | 800 | 17 | 43 | |
| Country 7: Top country of training | ROU | CZE | CHE | SRB | |
| Country 7: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 73 | 650 | 16 | 33 | |
| Country 8: Top country of training | SVN | PHL | ITA | BGR | |
| Country 8: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 71 | 583 | 15 | 30 | |
| Country 9: Top country of training | ITA | SRB | BGR | SVK | |
| Country 9: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 64 | 551 | 8 | 29 | |
| Country 10: Top country of training | BGR | SVN | TUR | CZE | |
| Country 10: No. of foreign trained health personnel | 37 | 526 | 6 | 24 | |
| Source (e.g. professional register, census data, national survey, other) | Austrian Medical Chamber | Austrian health professions register | Österreichisches Hebammengremium (midwives) | Austrian dental chamber | |
| Year of data (Please provide the data of the latest year available) | 2023 | 2023 | 2024 | 2024 | |
| Remarks | no data available |
[Q12x2x1x]
If you have any document with information on the distribution of foreign-trained health personnel for your country by their country of training, please upload
Technical and financial support
[INFOxNRI14]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx9]
Technical and financial support
[Q13]
Has your country provided technical or financial assistance to any source countries or countries in the WHO health workforce support and safeguards list 2023, or other low- and middle-income countries on health workforce development, health system strengthening, or for implementing other recommendations of the Code (e.g., strengthening data, information and research on health workforce for translation to policies and planning, etc.)
No
[Q14]
Has your country received technical or financial assistance from any WHO Member State or other stakeholders (e.g., development partners, other agencies) for health workforce development, health system strengthening, or for implementing other recommendations of the Code (e.g., strengthening data, information and research on health workforce for translation to policies and planning, etc.)?
No
Constraints, Solutions, and Complementary Comments
[INFOxNRI15]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[INFOx10]
Constraints, Solutions, and Complementary Comments
[Q15]
Please list in priority order, the three main constraints to the ethical management of international migration in your country and propose possible solutions:
| Main constraints | Possible solutions/recommendations | |
|---|---|---|
| Fragmented responsibilities due to the federal political system in Austria. | • Nationwide statistics (health profession register has started in July 2018); • A Federal Target-Based Governance Agreement was first concluded in 2013 (and has been renewed and extended since then) where key players of the Austrian Health Care System jointly defined financial and health targets together with measures for achieving them (see here: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Gesundheit/Gesundheitssystem/Gesundheitsreform-(Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit)/Zielsteuerung-Gesundheit---Monitoringberichte.html); • The information on the new website „www.nursinginaustria.at serves the authorities to simplify and standardize the process of recognition and nostrification of nursing professions. The database bundles knowledge and provides information. The aim is to achieve a common perspective in the assessment of foreign training courses, particularly for nurses. | |
| A minimum language proficiency for foreign-trained or immigrant health personnel is required in order to be able to work in Austria. This is an important measure in order to ensure high quality care, but it is also a challenge to ensure that nostrification applicants have sufficient knowledge of German. | • International healthcare and nursing staff must be supported in the language acquisition process and referred to the existing offers in Austria at recognized language schools or relevant language courses. • Healthcare and nursing staff from abroad have the opportunity to receive financial support for language examinations (https://www.integrationsfonds.at/themen/foerderungen/). • Employers shall ensure as far as possible that international healthcare and nursing staff are given sufficient time to prepare for and successfully complete the necessary language courses and language examinations. | |
| Shortage of health workforce is expected to increase and as a result the pressure on the health care system increases. | • Nationwide development of an extensive range of different measures to support recruitment and retention of healthcare workforce. • In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Ministry of Labor and Economy. Representatives of various federal ministries and institutions are members of the strategy committee in order to increase closer cooperation between the relevant bodies. |
[Q16]
What support do you require to strengthen implementation of the Code?
Support to strengthen data and information on health personnel
Support for policy dialogue and development
Support for the development of bilateral/multi-lateral agreements
Others
No support required
[Q17]
Considering that the Code is a dynamic document that should be updated as required, please provide reflections from your country on the past 14 years since the resolution on the Code.
[Q17x1]
Please comment on if/how the Code has been useful to your country.
In regard to the shortage of health personnel, whenever possible solutions linked to international recruitment of health personnel are being considered, the code is used in order to take into consideration what principles and practices for the ethical international recruitment of health personnel Austria has committed itself to.
In December 2023, the federal government adopted a strategic action plan to combat the shortage of skilled workers in Austria and established a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Ministry of Labor and Economy. Representatives of various federal ministries and institutions are members of the strategy committee in order to increase closer cooperation between the relevant bodies. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK) is in charge of developing Austrian guidelines based on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. (see here: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/medien/ministerraete/ministerraete-seit-dezember-2021/ulb-79a-1-dez.html).
[Q17x2]
Do any articles of the Code need to be updated?
No
[Q17x3]
Does the process of reporting on Code implementation and the review of the Code relevance and effectiveness need to be updated?
No
[Q17x4]
Please comment on the WHO health workforce support and safeguards list (e.g. if your country is included in the list, how has that affected you; if your country is reliant on international health personnel, how has the list affected you; if your country is not in the list, how has it affected you)
[Q18]
Submit any other complementary comments or material you may wish to provide regarding the international recruitment and migration of health personnel, as related to implementation of the Code.
Please describe OR Upload (Maximum file size 10 MB)
Please describe OR Upload (Maximum file size 10 MB)
[Q18x1]
Warning
[INFOxNRI16]
National Reporting instrument 2024
[WARN]
You have reached the end of the National Reporting Instrument - 2024. You may go back to any question to update your answers or confirm your entry by clicking ‘Submit’.