The number of GP training places accepted in Scotland has risen once more, figures for 2020 show.
A total of 281 general practice specialty training posts were filled this year up from 258 posts in 2019 and 250 in 2018.
RCGP Scotland chair Dr Carey Lunan, said the 32 extra trainees would help to bolster the GP workforce.
‘This year’s trainees have embarked on their careers in general practice at an extraordinary time as we continue to deal with the lasting impacts of Covid-19 for our patients and provide everyday patient care in new and innovative ways.
‘It could be argued that there has never been a more important time to become a GP.’
But she added that the number of GP training places must continue to increase year-on-year if the Scottish Government are to hit their target of 800 additional GPs working in Scotland by 2027.
‘Currently less than 10% of the undergraduate curriculum is delivered in general practice, and we welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to increase this to 25% through implementing the recommendations made in Professor John Gillies’ report into undergraduate medical education.
‘Increased exposure means more medical students are likely to train as GPs.’
It comes as GP trainee numbers in England have risen by 15% to reach ‘record-breaking’ numbers, the Government announced last month.
And a marketing campaign and financial incentives have boosted GP trainee recruitment in Wales by 58% in two years.
