The shortage of GPs in Scotland may be worsening, according to a new survey.

Some 28.5% of practices reported having a vacancy at the beginning of this month, according to a survey of 500 practices.

Last week official statistics showed that 20% of practices had vacancies in August last year – and half the vacancies had been held for at least six months.

It led the Scottish government to promise new measures to improve recruitment.

The British Medical Association received responses from 53% of practices for its latest survey. In March a similar survey found 26% of practices having a vacancy.

BMA Scottish GP committee chair Dr Alan McDevitt said the findings were “extremely concerning.”

He said: “The Scottish Government can no longer talk about record numbers of GPs in Scotland. The vacancy rate shows that there are simply not enough doctors to meet the demands being put upon general practice.

“Every unfilled vacancy puts more and more strain on remaining GPs who must struggle to cover the gaps in their practice while also coping with increasing demands on GP services.”

He added: “The Scottish Government must take immediate and effective action to support GPs who are facing significant challenges in maintaining quality services for patients under increasingly difficult circumstances.”