Factors Affecting Gender-based Experiences for Residents in Radiation Oncology

Publication date: Available online 6 February 2016
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Parul N. Barry, Karen H. Miller, Craig Ziegler, Rosanna Hertz, Nevine Hanna, Anthony E. Dragun
PurposeWhile women comprise approximately half of medical school graduates, an uneven gender distribution exists among many specialties, including radiation oncology where women fill only one-third of residency positions. Although multiple social and societal factors have been theorized, a structured review of radiation oncology resident experiences has yet to be performed.Methods and MaterialsAn anonymous and voluntary survey was sent to 611 radiation oncology residents practicing in the United States. Residents were asked about their gender-based experiences in terms of mentorship, their professional and learning environment, and their partnerships and personal life.ResultsA total of 203 participants submitted completed survey responses. Fifty-seven percent of respondents were men and 43% were women, with a mean age of 31 years (SD = 3.7 years). While residents in general place value in having a mentor, female residents prefer mentors of the same gender (p <0.001), and noted having more difficulty finding a mentor (p=0.042). Women were more likely to say that they have observed preferential treatment based on gender (p≤0.001) and were more likely to perceive gender-specific biases or obstacles in their professional and learning environment (p<0.001). Women select residency programs based on gender ratios (p<0.001), and female residents prefer to see equal number of male and female faculty (p<0.001). Women were also more likely to perceive work related strain than their male counterparts (<0.001).ConclusionsDifferences in experiences for male and female radiation oncology residents exists with regard to mentorship and in their professional and learning environment.

Teaser

Despite the fact that women make up about 50% of medical school graduates, many specialties having an uneven gender distribution. Radiation oncology is no exception, and continues to have a female minority. A survey was sent to radiation oncology residents practicing in the United States evaluating gender-based experiences to further understand why this disparity exists.


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