Identifying and assessing expertise gaps in healthcare education across Europe: a cross-sectional study

Background Disparities in healthcare professional education across Europe generate expertise gaps, impacting negatively on patient care. Although previous studies have identified significant variations in the availability of educational resources, access to specialized training, and distribution of qualified educators, none have identified practical solutions to address these gaps. This study aimed at developing and validating a tool for identifying expertise gaps in healthcare education and assessing these gaps across Europe. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between April-September 2024 involving healthcare professionals and academics. The survey, developed by a multidisciplinary team within an EU-funded project, explored expertise gaps in hard, transversal, digital, and green skills in the domains of: ‘knowledge’, ‘practice’, ‘research’, and ‘teaching methods’. Face validity, reliability and construct validity were assessed using Cronbach's alpha and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results A total of 230 responses were collected. Gaps in digital and green skills were identified across all domains. Research-related gaps were related to methodological knowledge and skills. Gaps in teaching methods included lack of innovative and student-centred approaches. The tool demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α ≥ 0.80), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported its construct validity. Conclusions This validated tool can be used to map academic expertise gaps in healthcare education at local, national and international levels. Targeted interventions in digital and green competencies, innovative pedagogy, and research training are needed. The tool offered a practical starting point for identifying skill gaps, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Europe’s commitment to high-quality, inclusive education.