Suspended doctors are costing the NHS £50 million a year, according to new research.

An investigation by Reader's Digest concluded NHS trusts are paying for the cost of investigating around 100 doctors, paying them to stay at home and hiring replacements.

And its report claimed most are involved in trivial complaints brought on by whistle blowing against hospital trusts or petty jealousies.

Researchers found just one in five investigations lead to complaints being upheld.

A leading BMA member warned in some cases the NHS was being over-zealous.

"Some doctors are not good at interpersonal skills. They can be a bit bossy and shout at people. They are suspended at once and sometimes managers start to look into their clinical records in the hope of finding a real reason to justify the suspension," said Dr Jane Fenton-May.

The Department of Health said it was considering changes to the current disciplinary system.

"It is in the interests of all concerned to ensure that alternatives to suspension are carefully considered, for example the employee continuing to work on limited or alternative duties where practicable," said a spokesman.