It can take five years for a refugee doctor to pass the right UK exams

The BMA's database of medically qualified refugees and asylum seekers has topped 1,000 for the first time, recording 1,009 such doctors.

Only 69 were employed - but the database does rely on doctors reporting their own job status.

Other data from around the UK have shown that up to 160 refugee doctors were working in the NHS.

The BMA said many more doctors could get jobs if they were given the proper support.

Many were taking years to find work, even after they had been granted permission to stay.

"Doctors who pursue their vocation of helping patients despite poverty, discrimination and abuse, deserve our full support," said Dr Edwin Borman, chairman of the BMA's international committee.

"Many bring with them years of experience and training.

Search for work

"And yet, even when they have jumped though all the hoops, lived for years on benefits as low as �39 per week, they are prepared to start at the bottom in the NHS."

Dr Borman, in information from the database to be presented to the Department of Health Refugee Health Professionals Steering Group next week, said it takes an average of five years for a refugee doctor in London to pass all the necessary exams.

However, those who have support programmes to help them integrate, such as English lessons, become registered more quickly than those without.

"How many patients on waiting lists for hip operations, cataract surgery, or treatments for other painful and debilitating conditions would be helped by 1,000 more doctors putting their skills to use?" he said.

"Over the three years the refugee doctors' database has been in existence, we have developed a clear idea of the contribution refugees make in the NHS, and of ways we can help them find work.

"We believe similar projects could be used in other areas of society, so that we make the best use of the skills of refugees and asylum-seekers."