Staub M, Han B, Lee Hill A, Thomson E, Martin JL, Hoffmann R, Osborn TM, McCormick M, Ogden MA, Chilson K, Eckhouse SR. Does gender affect experiences in the operating room for surgeons and anesthesiologists at a large academic center?
Am J Surg 2024;
227:63-71. [PMID:
37821294 DOI:
10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.09.033]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Although the number of women medical trainees has increased in recent years, they remain a minority of the academic workforce. Gender-based implicit biases may lead to deleterious effects on surgical workforce retention and productivity.
METHODS
All 440 attending surgeons and anesthesiologists employed at our institution were invited to complete a survey regarding perceptions of the perioperative work environment and resources. Odds ratios for dichotomous variables were calculated using logistic regressions, and for trichotomous variables, polytomous regressions.
RESULTS
243 participants (55.2%) provided complete survey responses. Relative to men, women faculty reported a greater need to prove themselves to staff; less respect and fewer resources and opportunities; more frequent assumptions about their capabilities; and a greater need to adjust their demeanor to connect with their team (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
Perceived gender bias remains present in the perioperative environment. We need greater efforts to address barriers and create an equitable work environment.
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