Following on from the recent news that saw Health Education England announce the creation of almost 900 extra medical specialty training posts, the Scottish Government have announced that 2022 saw more medical training posts filled than ever before.
Some of the latest NHS recruitment data indicates that 93% of the 1,155 training positions advertised were successfully filled; the equivalent of 1,073 posts for doctors in training.
These numbers reflect the biggest number of medical training posts filled since records began back in 2013, with most specialties filling at 100% – those include Core Psychiatry, Clinical Radiology, and Core Surgical Training. General Practice training posts saw similar figures with 99% of places filling successfully.
Scottish health secretary, Humza Yousaf, said on the statistics: “The results of this year’s recruitment process continue to show that Scotland is a highly desirable place to live, train and work as a trainee doctor. This is testament to our first-class medical education system and flexible training opportunities.
“Building on our high staffing levels, that have consistently grown for the last decade, is absolutely vital to the recovery of our NHS and I would like to thank each and every doctor in training who has opted to pursue their career in Scotland. All NHS Scotland staff work tirelessly to meet the healthcare needs of our country.
“We realise that there is always room for improvement and will therefore continue to work with NHS Education for Scotland to support our trainees as much as we possibly can to ensure the sustainability of our workforce.”
NHS Education for Scotland’s Medical Director, Professor Emma Watson, added: “The 2022 recruitment figures reflect the strong reputation Scottish medical education and training has among doctors beginning their careers as General Practitioners or Hospital Specialists.
“It is our responsibility to meet their expectations and to continue to improve and through education and training prepare and support them in their roles in the NHS.”
