Introduction and objective:
Population aging in Poland and Europe poses new challenges for healthcare systems. Strategies are being developed at the international and national levels to counteract the effects of the demographic crisis, including reforms in medical staffing. The purpose of this literature review is to present the demographic situation in Poland and Europe, and to analyze measures taken to adapt healthcare human resources to the changing realities.

Review methods:
The review was based on an analysis of the literature concerning the impact of population aging on the demand for medical personnel. Searches were performed in PubMed and Google Scholar databases between November 2024 and April 2025, using relevant keywords. Fifty publications in Polish and English were included, omitting sources outside the OECD area. Reports from international organizations, as well as Polish governmental and professional institutions, were included in the analysis.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Brief description of the state of knowledge Population aging in Europe is progressing, and Poland is one of the countries particularly affected by this process. At the same time, there is a shortage of medical staff, especially doctors, nurses, and long-term care workers. Problems are exacerbated in geriatric care – despite its priority status, there is a shortage of geriatricians, nursing staff, and adequate infrastructure, and the quality of care deviates from accepted standards. Proposed solutions include educational measures, financial incentives for geriatric work, and legislative changes.

Summary:
The aging of the population is increasing the demand for healthcare and exacerbating staff shortages, particularly in geriatric care. Effectively countering these processes requires systemic measures, including educational, financial and regulatory measures, as well as investments in personnel and infrastructure.