Bryce-Alberti M, Dutta R, Sana H, Raykar NP, Griggs C. The Paradoxical Criticism of Gender Parity in Surgery.
J Surg Educ 2023;
80:1748-1750. [PMID:
37648578 DOI:
10.1016/j.jsurg.2023.08.006]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The present work explores a controversy surrounding gender equity in surgical residency programs, particularly focusing on the Stanford University and University of Washington (UW) General Surgery Residency cohorts. While the Stanford cohort, which consisted mostly of women, faced criticism from nonmedical audiences claiming that gender was prioritized over qualifications, the all-male radiology residents received less attention and fewer criticisms. The article highlights the double standards and challenges the notion of meritocracy. It discusses the gender and racial disparities in surgical residency programs, emphasizing the need for diversity and inclusion. The presence of diverse female representation is seen as a valuable asset that brings compassion, teamwork, and inclusive leadership to the field. The article calls for active support from institutions, male allies, and transparency in collecting applicant demographic data to address biases and promote gender diversity in surgery.
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