GP vacancy figures show the problem is getting worse, not better
Responding to figures showing a drop in the number of GPs, Alison Johnstone, Health spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, highlighted the need to provide a better work-life balance to retain existing GPs and encourage new recruits.
Figures show:
-The Whole Time Equivalent of GPs working in practices declined by 2 per cent between 2013 and 2015 (from 3,735 to 3,645).
-One in five practices reported having a GP vacancy at 31 August 2015, twice as many as in 2013. Half of the vacancies reported had been vacant for over six months.
-More than a third of GPs working in Scottish general practice are over 50.
Alison Johnstone MSP said:
"For years, Scottish Ministers have been aware of unsustainable workloads for GPs and a shortage of practitioners. The public are suffering as many find it incredibly difficult to access a doctor. For example, in Midlothian six of the county's twelve GP practices have restricted lists and many of these are in the areas of greatest need.
"These latest figures show the problem is getting worse, not better. While Ministers have today announced £2million for a handful of projects, this is a drop in the ocean when we consider the scale of the challenge we face. For many GPs, the stress of running a practice causes them to leave, and the Government must recognise the need for different employment options.
"The Royal College of GPs have talked of a profession close to tipping point. We must see stronger action to encourage universities to train new doctors, and we must see incentives for GPs to postpone retirement. Professional development can also help address the lack of work-life balance that causes so many to burn out."
Primary Care Workforce Survey Scotland 2015 (ISD Scotland)