With a new intake of junior doctors now joining the ranks of NHS Scotland , it’s an opportunity to welcome positive progress and the expansion of an ever-more innovation-ready workforce at an important time. As we continue the pivotal transformation and renewal process, it’s also pleasing to note data indicating that the face of the country’s hard-working healthcare staff is ever more balanced and inclusive. According to the General Medical Council (GMC) Workforce Report 2022 published last year, 47.
5% of registered doctors were recorded as female - a significant increase on the 38% figure noted in 2008 - with 37.6% of consultants comprising women. It further noted that our NHS workforce in Scotland boasts the highest proportion of female doctors across the UK at a total of 53%: a positive development which could mean that health inequalities still being experienced by women are better understood and more quickly addressed.
Records levels of investment are set to see an additional 153 trainee doctor posts available this year, thought to be the largest annual expansion on record. While it undoubtedly remains a challenging time for the profession, taken together, such figures show a strong desire and determination to address problems at grassroots level, get the workforce balance right, and meet changing demands across a wide range of specialties and general practice. Now, as we welcome fresh thinking from junior doctors who have already been immersed in innovation-inspir.