We all need a good wife to support us

A survey of 890 appointment committee members undertaken in South Thames (West) Regional Health Authority showed that women doctors are less likely to apply for posts in hospital medicine, although if they do apply they stand a better chance of getting appointed. Male respondents perceived role conflict in combining professional and family demands, child-care arrangements and career breaks to be the main barriers facing female hospital doctors. In contrast female doctors considered organizational culture, career structure and working practices to be the main barriers. Candidates, particularly female candidates, are still being asked questions about their plans to have a family and ability to combine family and professional demands. There is a need to ensure the culture, attitudes and organizational practices within the medical profession are changed if there is to be equity of opportunity and effective use of resources in the future.