More than 80 new junior doctors have joined NHS Lanarkshire.

The health board welcomed 81 first-year doctors, an increase from 77 last year and 66 in 2020.

The doctors took part in a week-long induction programme, which included shadowing current trainees which allowed the new doctors to gain first-hand experience before starting their rotations across various hospital departments.

This year's cohort will contribute to a range of specialties, including emergency medicine, intensive care medicine, care of the elderly, and the new addition for the 2024 specialty, frailty.

(Image: NHS Lanarkshire)

Professor Jann Gardner, chief executive of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to all the new junior doctors from myself, the Board and all my executive colleagues.

“Congratulations for all your hard work to get to this point. At times, complex healthcare can be a challenging journey and there will be lots to learn but we are committed to supporting these promising new doctors as they embark on their medical careers.

“We are delighted they have chosen Lanarkshire as they begin the next exciting chapter in their careers.

“I started my own clinical careers in NHS Lanarkshire and couldn’t recommend it highly enough.”

(Image: NHS Lanarkshire)

She said the care, compassion, and commitment from everyone in team Lanarkshire makes their service special and ensures the delivery of the highest standard of patient care.

She added: “In response to valuable feedback from previous cohorts, we have extended this year's induction programme from five to seven days.

“Last year's participants reported positive experiences, highlighting the clear, comprehensive practical advice and engaging, realistic scenarios provided during the induction.

“This enhancement ensures our junior doctors are even better prepared to excel in their roles across our health board.”