More than 500 new doctors have joined the workforce this year - most starting new roles this week

Health Minister Simeon Brown says 531 graduates are entering the profession as House Officers in hospitals and clinics around the country.

After 12 months they'll be officially registered and able to apply for more specialised training.

Brown says the Government's increased medical placements by 100 places each year - with medical school enrolments now capped at 639 a year.