IMG Doctors Rural Recruitment, Retention and Induction Resources
Welcome to the IMG Doctors Rural Recruitment, Retention and Induction Resources
This resource page brings together practical tools and guidance to support the recruitment, retention, and induction of IMG doctors into rural and independent contractor practices.
These resources provides insight and information for IMG GP's who are considering rural practice, to support building a stable workforce and provide a smooth, supportive transition for incoming doctors.
Our aim is to make remote, rural, and island health and care knowledge easier to navigate and apply in practice.
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If you need any further information or support, please contact us at nes.ruralteam@nhs.scot.
To join our Stakeholder Mailing List, please use the following link: Join Stakeholder Mailing List
Key Resources for Understanding Rural GP Practice in Scotland
Types of GP Practices in Scotland
Rural and Island Classifications
IMG Doctors Rural and Island NHS Scotland Guidance
This resource provides guidance for IMG doctors interested in working as GPs in Scotland’s rural and island communities. It offers tailored information to help IMG GPs understand the different types of GP practices, how rural classifications are used, and key demographic insights for these areas. It also outlines the career pathways, training opportunities, and professional development options available to those pursuing GP roles in rural and island settings.
đź”— Download your interactive PDF of this guidance resource.
IMG Doctors Rural and Island Resources
Marketing Resources to support IMG Recruitment into Rural and Independent Rural Contractor Practices
Explore a collated collection of marketing resources to support recruitment of IMG doctors to rural and independent GP practices in rural and island areas. You'll find links to a wide range of different types of resources including guidance for advertising jobs to potential IMG GP candidates.
Remote, Rural and Island Job Promotion Guidance
GP Rural Recruitment Best Practice Guide
Recruiting and retaining General Practitioners in rural Scotland requires a thoughtful, informed, and community‑centred approach. Rural practices face unique challenges, from geographic isolation and workforce shortages to the realities of life and work in remote areas. At the same time, these settings offer exceptional professional opportunities, a strong sense of community, and the chance to deliver truly holistic, continuity‑driven care.
This guide brings together proven strategies, insights, and practical steps to support Health Boards and GP Practices in attracting, selecting, and sustaining the right candidates. Rooted in real‑world learning from rural teams across Scotland, the guide is designed to help practices improve their recruitment journey end‑to‑end, from early workforce planning and advertising through to applicant support, selection approaches, onboarding, and long‑term retention.
đź”— Explore the GP Rural Recruitment Best Practice Guide.
Explore the National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care Information Hub
