Zarah ChoudharyNearly two-thirds of ethnic minority doctors in Scotland have experienced or witnessed racism at work, according to a new report by BMA Scotland.
The survey revealed that 64% of non-white doctors have either experienced (41%) or witnessed (23%) racist incidents.
The figures were particularly stark for Asian doctors, with 44% reporting direct experiences of racism and a further 24% having witnessed discriminatory behaviour.
The findings showed an increase from the last survey conducted in 2021, when 62% of non-white doctors reported experiencing or witnessing racism.
Despite the rise in reported incidents, fewer doctors were formally raising complaints.
Only 11% of non-white doctors reported taking formal action over racist incidents, a 6% drop compared to 2021.
The report also highlighted growing inequality in job application success rates.
First-time job applications for non-white doctors have declined, with success rates falling from 48% in 2021 to 43% in 2024.
In contrast, white doctors have seen their success rates increase from 61% to 67% over the same period.
Grievance complaints revealed a further disparity.
Ethnic minority doctors were more likely to file workplace grievances, accounting for 41% of complaints compared to 20% among white doctors.
However, satisfaction with the outcomes of these complaints remained low, with 79% of ethnic minority doctors expressing dissatisfaction, compared to 63% of their white counterparts.
Dr Sajid Farid, chair of BMA Scotland’s race equality forum, said: “This report shines a light on the harsh reality that many ethnic minority doctors in Scotland are still experiencing racism personally or witnessing incidents.
“It shows that racism is clearly still far too common and serious an issue in the medical profession.
“Little has changed in the four years since we last carried out the survey – indeed, the findings suggest it is an issue which is getting worse.
“Despite increasing recognition and awareness of the deeply entrenched issues of racism and inequality, there has been a lack of progress in tackling discrimination which exists in the NHS and it remains far too prevalent.”
Farid added: “This report highlights the need for urgent and effective action and we call on the Scottish Government and NHS boards to do much more to address the issue and do more to prioritise the wellbeing and professional growth of all ethnic minority doctors, which will also ensure high-quality patient care.
“Tackling inequality within the NHS workforce is a complex issue which does not have one solution and a number of different approaches will be required.
“This includes working to increase the diversity of those who are recruited, for example by reviewing recruitment processes and removing potential barriers to entry.
“There must be proactive steps taken to create a culture of inclusion in the NHS, which must start at the top with managers and leadership and include making sure that all employees receive training on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural awareness, and diversity and inclusion.”
Farid concluded: “The findings of the survey show that far more has to be done to investigate and take action on complaints raised by non-white doctors regarding racist incidents, as well as other workplace issues.
“A zero-tolerance approach must be taken to discrimination and harassment, so that ethnic minority doctors, who are a vital part of the workforce in Scotland, feel valued and supported to have a long and fulfilling career in the NHS.”
