Background:
Despite growth of female representation in otolaryngology, gender imbalance still exists. We sought to determine what barriers affected females’ career progression in Head and Neck surgery.
Methods:
An anonymous survey, using a validated study, the Culture Conducive to Women’s Academic Success (CCWAS) was circulated to all practicing Consultants and NCHDs in Otolaryngology in the Republic of Ireland. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), using Mann Whitney U-Test and Kruskal-Wallace test to compare scores.
Results:
Sixty-three respondents were included in the analysis with a 3:2 male preponderance. Overall male otolaryngologists perceive the work culture for females more equitable than their female colleagues. (median CCWAS score 182 vs 126 p <0.001) Female trainees were less likely than their male counterparts to pursue a career in Head and Neck Surgery, and were more likely to report gender discrimination affecting their future career choice (p <0.001). Compared to females, males report ample same gender mentors throughout training (p <0.001).
Conclusion:
Acknowledgement of perceptions of the gender inequity amongst otolaryngologists is the first step in improving the work culture for females wishing to pursue a career in Head and Neck Surgery.
Danielle James1, Orla Young1
1 Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, University Hospital Galway, Galway