Healthcare professionals’ perceptions about gaps in knowledge, practice, teaching, and research across Europe: A qualitative descriptive study

Introduction The education and training of healthcare professionals is constantly evolving, requiring healthcare educators to remain well-informed about new knowledge, innovations in clinical practice, modern teaching methods, and current research skills. However, inequalities in healthcare education persist across Europe, requiring innovative solutions to address these disparities. This study aimed to explore the collective views of healthcare professionals about gaps in knowledge, practice, teaching and research within their specific profession and country. Methods A series of six online focus groups were conducted with healthcare professionals from 12 European countries within the framework of a project co-funded by the European Union entitled project “ExChange Of ExpertiSe in healthcare professionals’ education” (ECHOES). Project number: 2023–1-MT01-KA220-HED-000156744. The present study followed the COREQ guidelines for reporting qualitative studies. Results Six main themes emerged from the analysis: 1) Discrepancies in educational standards; 2) Access to Continuing Professional Development and importance of e-learning; 3) Need for more interprofessional collaboration and education; 4) Integration of evidence-based practice; 5) Absence of green skills and sustainable healthcare practices; 6) Lack of digital skills and competencies. Conclusions Addressing gaps in healthcare education across Europe, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 ‘Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education’, will enable to improve quality, continuity, and effectiveness of care, and empower healthcare professionals to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare. However, this requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, healthcare organisations, and policymakers to create a more supportive and resourceful learning environment.