A new report has set out views on how the medical profession could change in Scotland.

The Future Medical Workforce report investigates how Scotland's medical workforce might need to evolve over the next 15 to 20 years.

The publication follows six months of extensive engagement with the profession, including through a survey and 40 focus groups.

Those taking part shared the privilege and joy they feel in caring for patients but also highlighted significant pressures in balancing service delivery with training and managing increasing workloads.

Health secretary Neil Gray said: "Our doctors are the backbone of our NHS and it’s vital that we plan now to ensure we have the right workforce in place to meet Scotland's healthcare needs in the decades ahead.

“I have been clear of the need to listen closely to doctors at every career stage, and I am grateful for their honesty and insight which is invaluable in shaping our next steps."

Professor Andrew Elder, Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and Faculties in Scotland (Scottish Academy) said: “The Scottish Academy welcomes the publication of the report and commends all those involved for achieving a high level of engagement with doctors at all stages of their careers.

“Whilst multi-professional working is key to delivering high-quality care, we welcome the clear focus on the role of the doctor, and the report accurately and honestly reflects both the hopes and detailed concerns of doctors and underlines the central contribution they must continue to make to patient care.

“We are committed to working together with the Scottish Government to ensure that the key recommendations of this work are taken forward in a fluent and effective manner.”