Scottish Rural GP Fellowship Frequently Asked Questions
Considering a future in rural medicine?
This page brings together the key insights from the Scottish Rural GP Fellowship Information Session held in March, including a comprehensive Question and Answers resource drawn from real applicant questions and discussions.
Whether you're an early‑career GP exploring your next step after CCT or simply curious about what rural practice could offer, this resource provides a clear overview of the application process, eligibility, training expectations, working patterns, and life in remote and rural communities.
Explore further information on:
- Application Process
- Eligibility and Training Stage
- Training Content and Clinical Exposure
- Working Pattern and Contracting
- Paired or Joint Applications
- Accommodation
If you have any questions about the information in this resource, or you feel there is information which would be useful to add, please get in touch with the Centre for Workforce Supply at nes.cws@nhs.scot.
Scottish Rural GP Fellowship
The Scottish Rural GP Fellowship is designed to give newly qualified GPs a supported, confidence‑building year immersed in rural general practice. Fellows gain hands‑on clinical experience, tailored skills development, and the opportunity to become part of close‑knit communities across Scotland’s remote and rural areas. This page will guide you through what to expect, from how to apply, to training structure, to accommodation and lifestyle considerations, helping you decide whether this unique and rewarding fellowship is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Application Process
What does the application involve?
The application is available on the NHS Scotland website. It is a generic form, so applicants shouldn’t worry about having publications or extensive portfolios. Fill it in openly and honestly, outlining your previous experience, what you’ve done to date and a strong narrative explaining why you want to do the Rural Fellowship.
Eligibility and Training Stage
What are the eligibility criteria?
You must be on the GMC GP Register by the time you start the fellowship. This means GPST3s can apply now, if they are on track to CCT by August.
Less than full time trainees and those with small extensions can be accommodated with slight flexibility on start dates.
Can someone more than five years post CT apply?
The fellowship is aimed at “First5” GPs, but we would consider an application from someone over 5 yrs post CCT on rare occasions.
They must clearly articulate why they want to move to rural Scotland now and how the Rural Fellowship would support that transition
Fellowship Structure & Locations
Do many fellows stay working in or near their training practice?
Around 70% of fellows who remain in Scotland continue to work in remote or rural areas. Retention is strong both within their base practice or other rural communities. Fellows describe the programme as a good way to find a rural role that fits their lifestyle.
Do posts change each year?
Posts vary depending on host practices and Health Board availability. Usually 2–3 places change each year, though most remain similar.
What if a location I’m interested in isn’t on the list?
You can use your four-week placement to explore other areas (eg. Benbecula, Orkney). Flexibility is encouraged, especially if you’re considering future work there.
Training Content and Clinical Exposure
How involved are rural GPs in maternity care?
Rural GPs may encounter obstetric emergencies, particularly during on call periods. Support includes rural maternity and midwifery teams and additional training such as Scottie courses are available. There is an obstetric skills update during one of the fellows' meetings.
Working Pattern and Contracting
How many sessions/hours per week?
It is a 40hour contract, based on a Sunday-to-Sunday rural model. On call work is included and when physically possible Working Time Directives still apply.
Can I work less than full time?
80% LTFT may be possible for the right candidate. Many find they don’t require LTFT because of generous development time within the programme.
Paired or Joint Applications
Can two GPs apply together or as a job-share?
It is best to discuss with the Fellowship leads as early as possible, it may be possible, but it is dependent on post availability.
Accommodation
Is accommodation difficult to find?
Fellows should engage early with their base practice, which often has strong local networks. Expect that initial accommodation may be functional rather than scenic. Communities are very supportive and motivated to house a doctor.
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