This report explores various ways to increase the relevance of education for health care professionals as a strategy for improving the quality of health care and increasing access to services. Noting that the health work force can account for up to 70 percent of the health budget, the report concentrates on innovations in education that can make learning easier and more efficient while also producing graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills most relevant to high priority health problems. Particular attention is given to factors that are known to influence the success of two kinds of innovations: those dealing with the learning process and those dealing with the relevance of education to community needs and practices. The report also challenges educational institutions to expand their sphere of influence to include advice and guidance on the development of health policy and services and provides examples of innovative approaches. The report is organized in five main sections that cover the following topics: (1) the need for a fresh look at the education of health professionals, (2) learning from innovations in the education of health professionals; (3) creating links with new partners in the community; (4) strategies for change applied to health systems and to educational institutions; and (5) organizational and practical issues. Recommendations are made to educational institutions, member nations of the World Health Organization (WHO), and to WHO as an organization. Contains 24 references and 10 suggestions for further reading. (KC)