Healthcare professionals across the globe have emerged as the true heroes of the COVID-19 crisis. Through a mission of care and compassion, they deliver urgent medical support for those battling the disease. Their value to the improvement of health outcomes has been well documented. But it, of course, has taken on a new meaning in recent weeks.

The startling pandemic we’re living through has unearthed an issue that’s been plaguing the healthcare industry for decades: the growing skills gap. This problem (while broadly discussed, dissected, and debated for generations) is currently affecting us.