Summary

Germany faces a critical shortage of health-care workers, with 47,400 unfilled positions in 2023/2024, particularly for physiotherapists (11,600 vacancies), dental assistants (7,350), and nursing staff (7,100), according to a study by the German Economic Institute (IW).

The aging population is driving increased health-care demand, with those aged 65+ projected to rise from 21% to 29% by 2030.

The study highlights a broader labor market issue, with over 530,000 skilled worker vacancies across all industries, including 42,000 in construction-related fields.