RCGP Scotland response to the general practice workforce survey

Commenting on the publication of the workforce survey, RCGP Scotland Chair Dr Chris Provan said: "Today’s data marks the first time in several years that the number of whole-time equivalent GPs in Scotland has increased. While this is a welcome development, the rise follows consecutive declines, and the GP workforce remains smaller than pre-pandemic. We need to see future workforce survey publications before we can confidently say this is the beginning of a sustained upward trend in GP numbers.

“General practice in Scotland remains in a state of crisis. The relentless pressure of trying to do more with less is taking a toll on GPs, leading to some feeling they must reduce their hours, retire early, seek work abroad, or leave the profession altogether. This is the result of poor workforce planning and years of underinvestment by the Scottish Government.

“Last week’s announcement of a recurring £15 million investment is a positive first step towards properly resourcing general practice. I hope this signals the beginning of a significant shift in funding towards primary care, enabling us to deliver more care closer to home.

“If the Scottish Government accelerates investment in general practice, we can ensure that today’s increase in whole-time equivalent GP numbers is not a one-off, but the start of a meaningful and lasting growth in the GP workforce. I hope today’s figures mark a turning point."

Further information

Media requests to Marcus Carslaw, Policy and Public Relations Officer RCGP Scotland
Tel: 07808 795493 / marcus.carslaw@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

RCGP Scotland represents a network of around 5,000 doctors in Scotland aiming to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standard of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on resources, education, training, research, and clinical standards.