In a response to the GMC 2024 workforce report, ‘The state of medical education and practice in the UK’, Dr Naeem Nazem, head of medical at the Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) said,
“Locally employed doctors (LEDs) are a growing and integral part of the NHS workforce. But all too often they lack recognition for their experience, as well as the opportunities for further educational and professional development.
“The GMC’s conclusion that time for training should be protected for all doctors is welcome, as is their recognition that the future of the UK’s healthcare systems depend on the support and development of its trainers.
“Locally employed doctors are talented members of the healthcare team. They have an important role to play in managing immediate pressures and responding to regional needs. “They deserve to be valued and provided opportunities for career progression – instead of being seen as a disposable add-on resource.
“The report also found record growth in the headcount of licensed doctors, driven by international medical graduates (IMGs) taking up LED roles.
“It’s therefore essential that IMGs are welcomed in their workplace and any forms of discrimination are stamped out. To reach its full potential, the NHS must recognise the value of its IMG workforce.
“However, supporting the progression of LEDs, IMGs and new medical graduates necessitates investing time and resources into trainers.
“Trainers face high clinical workloads in addition to their training duties. They are under significant stress and, as the report finds, are unable to cope.
“A new budget can create the opportunity for new ways of thinking. We need a change of gear when it comes to supporting LED and IMG doctors. And the future training needs of the UK’s systems must be fully supported to jolt the NHS out of the vicious circle it finds itself in.”
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 65,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
The full report is available on the GMC website: https://www.gmc-uk.org/-/media/documents/somep-workforce-report-2024-full-report_pdf-109169408.pdf
For further information please contact Mareth Burns, junior communications officer, on mburns1@mddus.com.
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