Preparing today’s workforce for tomorrow’s challenges in care.

On 26 September, Qubiz Healthcare hosted the webinar “Shaping the Care Workforce of 2030.” The event convened healthcare leaders, innovators and practitioners to reflect on one of the defining questions of our age: how can we prepare the workforce for a future in which technology evolves rapidly, staff shortages intensify, and patients increasingly expect personalised care?

The turnout and level of engagement were truly inspiring. Participants contributed thoughtful perspectives, posed challenging questions, and confirmed what many of us already sensed: the healthcare community is determined to drive change, not merely respond to it.

Healthcare at a crossroads

The discussion began with a clear recognition: healthcare faces unprecedented demand alongside dwindling resources. An ageing population combined with a shortage of professionals means the traditional model is no longer sustainable. At the same time, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are progressing apace, offering powerful tools but also raising pressing questions about integration without sacrificing the human touch that defines quality care.

Key messages from our speakers

Five distinguished experts shared their experiences and visions for the future, each providing a unique perspective on how technology and innovation can reshape healthcare.

André Hermsen (Sensire)

With nearly two decades in telecare and digital innovation, André emphasised that innovation is not confined to new devices. It involves creating fresh roles and structures that allow professionals more time with people. From decision-support systems to voice-led reporting, he demonstrated how technology can reduce administrative tasks and support greater independence within communities.

Naomi Thielen (Canvas Healthcare Consulting)

Naomiaddressed head-on the concern that digital tools may diminish human contact. On the contrary, she argued, digital care creates space for deeper, more meaningful interactions. By enabling patients to answer routine questions or self-report symptoms online, professionals are freed to focus on treatment planning and conversations that matter. She also underlined the importance of training and assessing digital skills so teams apply technology where it adds real value.

Bas-Jan Zwijnenburg (The Salvation Army)

Bas-Jan highlighted continuity as paramount. Too often, patients experience gaps in care owing to shift changes or fragmented services. RobotsandAI, he suggested, can provide stability and consistency, whilst freeing professionals to concentrate on empathy and complex interventions. He stressed the need for user-friendly solutions and visual communication tools, especially in social care settings.

Lucas Brouw (eMaat)

Lucas, a GP and co-founder of eMaat, brought a behavioural science perspective, encapsulated in his motto: “Say it with data.” He illustrated how lifestyle dashboards, self-monitoring tools and playful nudges – from photographing meals to setting small daily challenges – can empower both patients and providers. His work has demonstrated measurable outcomes, including weight reduction among diabetes patients.

Bjorn Okkerse(Okkersehealthit)

Bjorn concluded with a striking provocation: “We don’t need surgeons, we need gamers.” He argued that the rise of robotic and VR-assisted surgery demands new competencies such as fine motor skills, hand–eye coordination and even gaming expertise. His broader point was unequivocal: roles and skills must evolve rapidly to keep pace with technology, and teams must adapt collectively.

Questions that mattered

The audience played an active role in shaping the debate. Questions about preserving the human touch, the risk of professionals becoming redundant, and how best to measure the impact of new technologies reflected both curiosity and commitment to balanced solutions. This reminded us that change in healthcare is not only about tools and systems, but also about people’s fears, aspirations and values.

Key takeaways

• Technology should be regarded as an enabler, not a replacement.
• Professionals’ roles are shifting from carrying out tasks to coaching, guiding and connecting.
• Data and behavioural tools can empower patients to take greater ownership of their health.
• Continuity, empathy and human-centred values must remain fundamental.
• Collaboration across organisations and regions is essential for scaling successful practices.

Looking ahead

This webinar marks only the beginning. We will continue the conversation with further sessions in the coming months, exploring the practical challenges and opportunities in reshaping the care workforce. We hope you will join us, follow our updates on LinkedIn, and contribute to the discussions shaping the future of healthcare.

About Qubiz Healthcare

Qubiz Healthcare partners with organisations to drive transformation through consultancy and tailored software solutions. By reducing administrative workload by up to 25%, we enable professionals to devote more time to what truly matters: delivering exceptional care.

Discover how we can help reduce your organisation’s workload and unlock more time for care. Get in touch with us today.