Story one of ten today, about five minutes for the lot

Elderly person in wheelchair being assisted by caregiver in indoor facility

Australia faces 200,000-strong health worker shortage by 2050

Australia faces a shortage of more than 200,000 health and aged care workers by 2049-50, according to Stephen Duckett, former federal health department secretary.

Why it mattersWithout action, Australia will struggle to staff hospitals and aged care homes as the population ages and demand grows.

AustraliaACT residents could benefit from coordinated planning to fill health jobs; other states could follow the model.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago

Next in today's edition

Elderly patient's hand wearing medical electrode patch in hospital bed

✓ region.com.auScience & Systems

3,600 elderly stranded in hospital beds, waiting for aged care spots

More than 3,600 older Australians are stuck in public hospitals waiting for aged care spots.

Why it mattersOlder Australians are staying in hospitals longer than necessary, costing more money and blocking beds needed for acute care. Emergency departments designed for quick treatment are becoming holding areas.