Developing a Sustainable Pediatric Workforce: From Admissions to Healthcare Delivery

The future of pediatric healthcare depends not only on advances in clinical science, but also on the development of a sustainable, multidisciplinary pediatric workforce capable of delivering equitable, high-quality care. Worldwide, healthcare systems face workforce shortages, burnout, increasing clinical complexity, and disparities in access, particularly in rural and resource-limited settings. Importantly, workforce development is directly linked to child health outcomes and health system performance.The pediatric workforce includes physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, allied health professionals, educators, and healthcare leaders, all contributing to child and adolescent health across care settings. Workforce development begins at admissions and extends through training, professional development, and long-term retention. Emerging educational models, including competency-based training, simulation, artificial intelligence, and digital learning platforms, are reshaping pediatric education.Increasingly important is the role of the workforce in transitioning adolescents and young adults with chronic conditions into adult care systems. In parallel, telehealth and virtual care models are transforming workforce organization and service delivery.New methodological approaches, including workforce analytics, predictive modeling, and data-driven planning, are critical for anticipating future needs. Furthermore, climate change is emerging as a key driver of new pediatric health demands, requiring workforce adaptation, while precision and personalized medical education are advancing training strategies.This Research Topic brings together clinicians, educators, researchers, policymakers, and healthcare leaders to explore innovative, evidence-based strategies across the pediatric workforce continuum—from admissions and recruitment to training, retention, and system-level delivery.We welcome submissions on, but not limited to:• Admissions pathways and equity in pediatric recruitment• Workforce diversity, inclusion, and representation• Recruitment, retention, and burnout prevention strategies• Competency-based education, simulation, and digital learning• AI and digital transformation in pediatric training• Rural and global workforce challenges• Interprofessional and team-based care models• Transition of care from pediatric to adult services• Telehealth and virtual pediatric care models• Workforce analytics and predictive modeling• Climate change and emerging pediatric workforce needs• Precision/personalized medical education approachesBy emphasizing a sustainable, multidisciplinary workforce and its direct impact on child health outcomes, this Research Topic aims to support innovation, equity, and resilience in pediatric healthcare delivery worldwide. Topic editors: Susan Flesher, Shelvy Campbell, PhD, MPH, Linda Nield Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/82204/developing-a-sustainable-pediatric-workforce-from-admissions-to-healthcare-delivery