Record number of junior doctors in Scotland take up posts
A doctor shaking hands with someone in plain clothes. Their handshake is the focus of the image. A female healthworker is smiling in the background out of focus.

Data from NHS Education for Scotland showed that applications for medical training posts in the country are at record levels with more junior doctors joining the NHS than ever before.

It shows that over 1,300 posts were advertised throughout 2023 and 94 per cent of these filled successfully.

This includes all entry-level posts in anaesthetics, radiology, emergency medicine, surgery and psychiatry. GP training programmes have been filled at 100% for the first time.

First minister Humza Yousaf said that the results show Scotland "continues to perform strongly in the field of medical education and training."

He added: "This reflects the dedication of our NHS staff who deliver high quality training while also caring for their patients alongside our continued investment in expanding our medical workforce and improving conditions.

“Last year BMA Junior Doctors accepted a record pay deal in Scotland, the single biggest investment in Junior Doctor pay since the Scottish Parliament was established in 1999. This maintains our commitment to make Scotland the best place in the UK for Junior Doctors to work and train."