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The hidden reserve of nurses and teachers in the Netherlands

Author

Listed:
  • Somers, Melline

    (RS: GSBE other - not theme-related research, ROA / Health, skills and inequality)

  • Fleck, Lara

    (ROA / Human capital in the region, RS: GSBE other - not theme-related research)

  • Groot, Wim

    (Maastricht Graduate School of Governance, RS: GSBE MGSoG, RS: CAPHRI - R2 - Creating Value-Based Health Care, Health Services Research)

  • van Merode, Frits

    (Faculteit FHML Centraal, RS: CAPHRI - R2 - Creating Value-Based Health Care)

Abstract

Like in many other high-income countries, the Netherlands experiences significant staff shortages in both healthcare and education. The key shortage occupations in these sectors are nurses and teachers. Both occupations suffer from high retirements rates and encounter difficulties in attracting and retaining (early career) workers. Due to early attrition, both sectors accumulate considerable hidden reserves. In this study, we estimate the magnitude of these hidden reserves and explore directions for unlocking this untapped potential. We define the hidden reserve as individuals who obtained a nursing or teaching diploma, but are not employed in the healthcare or education sector. Our definition of the hidden reserve also encompasses the number of additional hours that part-time workers could supply to reach a full-time working week. Using registry data, we show that the hidden reserves among (former) nurses and teachers by far exceeds the current staff shortages. Our analysis of survey data reveals that inactive nurses and teachers perceive several working conditions more favorably than their active counterparts. Activating this hidden reserve could involve strategies such as reducing work pressure and providing greater control over working hours, salary, and autonomy.

Suggested Citation

  • Somers, Melline & Fleck, Lara & Groot, Wim & van Merode, Frits, 2024. "The hidden reserve of nurses and teachers in the Netherlands," Research Memorandum 013, Maastricht University, Graduate School of Business and Economics (GSBE).
    • Handle: RePEc:unm:umagsb:2024013
    DOI: 10.26481/umagsb.2024013
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Brown, Kristine M., 2013. "The link between pensions and retirement timing: Lessons from California teachers," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 98(C), pages 1-14.
    2. Eric A. Hanushek & EJohn F. Kain & Steven G. Rivkin, 2004. "Why Public Schools Lose Teachers," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 39(2).
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J45 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Particular Labor Markets - - - Public Sector Labor Markets
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • J20 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - General
    • J30 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - General
    • I10 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - General
    • I20 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - General

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