Figure 1.

Challenges and Solutions to Expanding the Global Cardiac Surgical Care Workforce

Scaling the cardiac surgical workforce, including nonsurgical members of the cardiovascular care continuum, requires careful attention for education, research, and funding. Challenges (red boxes) exist across the workforce spectrum, which may be partially addressed through the proposed solutions (green boxes). Solutions include a recognition of all health care professionals involved in the management of cardiac surgical conditions; increased and improved training pathways and modalities for cardiac surgeons and nonsurgeons; diversity, equity, and inclusion across cardiac surgery; research infrastructure and support; and more sustainable partnerships and financing.