ONLY a fraction of medical students are from working-class backgrounds despite efforts to widen access, a new report by the Sutton Trust found today.

The research revealed that a handful of schools and colleges dominate medical school admissions, with applicants from private schools 1.5 times more likely to receive an offer than those from non-selective state schools.

The report, which analyses nearly 94,000 applicants to Britain’s medical schools between 2012 and 2022, found just 5 per cent of entrants came from the lowest socio-economic group, while 75 per cent were from wealthier backgrounds.

Sutton Trust chief executive Nick Harrison described the situation as “outrageous” given the NHS’s doctor shortage and heavy reliance on overseas recruitment.

“The medical profession is stretched to breaking point, and urgent action is needed to widen access and create a more diverse pipeline of talent from all parts of society,” he said.

“Patients benefit from doctors who reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, but it’s clear that we’re a long way from that today.

“If you have the ability, where you grow up or your parents’ income shouldn’t be a barrier to becoming a doctor.

“Working-class entry into medicine is in a critical condition. The profession urgently needs a shot of equality.”

Ohemaa Asare of the British Medical Association said: “It is such a shame that many aspiring and talented doctors of the future could make a valuable contribution to medicine and the NHS, but are being hindered by many hidden barriers.”

Medical Schools Council director of education Clare Owen said medical schools have made “significant progress” in widening participation over the past decade, but acknowledged the challenges.

A government spokesperson said that tackling educational inequality was a priority.