Paths to Specialty Selection: A Lens on Women Physicians &amp; Medical Practice and Leadership: Experiences of Women Physicians

Woods, Laura Allison

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Year:: 2018
Contributor:: Woods, Laura Allison (creator); Sharkey, Katherine (Advisor); Wetle, Terrie Fox (Advisor); Dunsiger, Shira (Advisor); Brown University. School of Public Health (sponsor)
Genre:: theses
Subject:: Qualitative research; Feminism; Physicians; Sex differences; Women in medicine; Women physicians; Women in Leadership
Extent:: viii, 75 p.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.26300/bgsh-eh84

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Abstract:: Paths to Specialty Selection: A Lens on Women Physicians Abstract Background: Women now comprise more than half of medical school classes in the US. However, women are underrepresented in some areas of medicine and overrepresented in others. Additionally, women are more likely to practice part-time than are men. Past research is lacking on the reasons, motivations, insights, and opinions behind specialty selection and how women in medicine practice. Using rigorous qualitative methodology, our study seeks to develop a richer understanding and insight regarding the decision-making process of women in choosing their specialties of medical practice. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 board-certified physicians. A post-interview questionnaire was administered. Results: Five major themes with subthemes were identified in analysis of the transcripts. First, female physicians note that having an interest and passion for a specialty is crucial for selection. Second, having personal experiences with a specialty helps guide selection. Third, ‘work-life’ balance is a critical consideration in selecting a specialty. Fourth, some areas of specialty are viewed as more welcoming to women than others. Lastly, women note differences in how their male counterparts may choose their areas of medical practices. Conclusions: Specialty selection is a multi-dimensional decision. Appropriate support and guidance from medical institutions is crucial in order to diversify representation of women in all specialties. Our findings, based on reports from respondents, appear to be systemic, national, and not localized to one specialty, age group, or geographic location. Medical Practice and Leadership: Experiences of Women Physicians Abstract Purpose: Past research has named numerous gender-specific challenges for women in medicine. This includes challenges for women aspiring to, and maintaining, medical leadership positions. However, this research has been largely quantitative. Using qualitative methodology, our study aims to further understand the experiences and challenges facing women in medical careers, as well as the impact of these experiences on academic leadership aspirations. This information can inform recommendations to support women in professional practice and medical leadership. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted nationally with 30 board-certified physicians. A post-interview questionnaire was administered. Interviews were audio-recorded, de-identified, transcribed, and entered into NVIVO software to aid in analysis. Codes were applied in accordance with modified grounded theory to identify cross cutting themes. An audit trail was kept. Results: Six major themes with subthemes were identified in analysis of the transcripts. First, female physicians note microagressions and discrimination in professional practice. Second, female gender may impact how patients interact with physicians. Third, lack of advancement into leadership positions is a key concern. Fourth, there has been a recent ‘cohort shift’ that influences the experiences of women in medicine. Fifth, mentorship is a valuable tool for female physicians. Lastly, academic medicine poses additional challenges for women. Conclusions: Respondents report lack of appropriate support for women in medicine and medical leadership that may contribute to: hindered advancement, experiences with microaggressions and discrimination, and difficulties managing work-life balance. Policies supporting mentorship and work-life balance should be utilized to further advocate for women in medicine. Our findings, based on reports from respondents, appear to be systemic, national, and not localized to one specialty, age group, or geographic location.
Notes:: Thesis (M. P. H.)--Brown University, 2018

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Rights: In Copyright
Restrictions on Use: Collection is open for research.

Citation

Woods, Laura Allison, "Paths to Specialty Selection: A Lens on Women Physicians & Medical Practice and Leadership: Experiences of Women Physicians" (2018). Public Health Theses and Dissertations. Brown Digital Repository. Brown University Library. https://doi.org/10.26300/bgsh-eh84

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Public Health Theses and Dissertations

Theses and Dissertations for the Public Health department.
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Paths to Specialty Selection: A Lens on Women Physicians & Medical Practice and Leadership: Experiences of Women Physicians