A&Es facing 50% junior doctor shortfall

Doctors working in emergency departments have warned of reduced opening hours and longer waiting times for patients amid fears of a 50% shortfall in junior doctor numbers next July.

A shortfall traditionally occurs every six months when trainee doctors rotate between specialities.

Yesterday, the Irish Association of Emergency Medicine issued a warning that all emergency departments, including large teaching hospitals, will see a shortfall in excess of 50% in senior doctor recruitment to the registrar grade — one level below a consultant — from July.