Lancet study: India has 73 health workers per 10,000; global shortage tops 34 million

A study published in The Lancet Public Health estimates that an additional 34.4 million doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, and pharmacists are needed worldwide to achieve moderate levels of universal health coverage — where people can access essential health services without financial hardship. The study found that women have driven the expansion of the global health workforce over the past three decades, but substantial shortages remain, especially in South Asia.

According to the study, India has a ratio of about 73 health workers per 10,000 population. This includes 10.5 doctors per 10,000 population, 10.8 nurses per 10,000 population, 8.1 pharmacists and pharmaceutical assistants per 10,000 population, and 1.2 midwifery personnel per 10,000 population. The figures highlight ongoing workforce gaps in India's health system, despite the broader global growth led by women.