Spending by NHS Borders on agency staffing has tripled in three years, the Scottish Conservatives have revealed.
Rachael Hamilton MSP, who uncovered the increase from a Freedom of Information request, said the increase was "shocking" and raised serious questions about NHS staff recruitment in rural areas.
In 2019/20, the health board spent just over £2 million on agency staffing.
By 2022/23, this figure had increased to £7.3 million, the highest level on record since at least 2010.
In April, NHS Borders said they were facing a £28 million deficit and previously warned that services would be impacted.
Scottish Borders MSP, Rachael Hamilton, said: "The public will be deeply concerned by these shocking new figures.
"Spending on agency staffing at NHS Borders is increasing rapidly to record levels.
"Our NHS staff do a fantastic job but these figures raise serious questions about staff recruitment.
"When local health services are suffering a financial crisis, it's vital that every penny is spent wisely in the most cost-effective way.
"The SNP Government must introduce a stronger recruitment strategy for rural healthcare so these issues don't continue to get worse in the Borders."