'27 doctors for each job': why are there so few training posts for specialties facing staff shortages?

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By Emma Wilkinson

Frustration and stress mounts as doctors struggle to secure specialty training places despite widespread shortages of senior specialists, leading many to worry if they’ll have a job at all.

For our next generation of doctors, the future looks increasingly uncertain. Competition for specialty training places is increasing year on year and new medics are up against applications from those with one, two or more years’ extra experience. They have debts to pay and trusts facing financial black holes are being told to cut back on rising locum bills.