Scotland has failed to increase GP numbers while practice numbers have declined, according to new figures.

About 4,900 doctors work as GPs in Scotland – about the same as ten years ago – while demand on their services has increased, according to the latest figures.

GP leaders said the figures highlighted the need to agree the new GP contract – which might help improve recruitment and retention. Doctors are currently voting on the contract.

The figures from Scottish Information Services Division show the number of patients registering for GP services has increased by 5%.

At the same time there has been a 20% increase in patients over the age of 65.

GPs are mostly female, according to the figures. Some 60% are women compared with fewer than half a decade ago.

The number of practices in the country has fallen from 1,097 to 956.

Dr Alan McDevitt, who chairs the British Medical Association’s Scottish GP committee, said: “The data shows that the number of GPs in Scotland has remained largely static for a number of years now, yet Scotland’s population is increasing, and in particular the number of older patients with multi-morbidities is rising.

“It is clear that the status quo in general practice can no longer continue. The proposed new contract that we have negotiated aims to reduce workload pressures and improve GP recruitment and retention.”