Reports have suggested that the NHS could introduce apprentice doctors in an attempt to fill staffing gaps.

The measure could be included in the NHS workforce plan which is set to be published in the coming weeks.

If it goes ahead, NHS trusts will be given funding to run five-year apprenticeship roles. At the end of the programme, the apprentices will become junior doctors. This would be instead of going to university.

Dr Latifa Patel, workforce lead for the British Medical Association, told the BBC: "Innovative approaches to education and training are welcome - but there are huge question marks over how far medical apprenticeships can solve this crisis.

"The medical-training pipeline is already stretched to its limits, with lecture halls at capacity, limited numbers of clinical placements and falling numbers of medical academic staff. Where are the extra resources going to come from?

"Ultimately, the solution the NHS needs is still the same - a dramatic increase in traditional medical-school places."