Gender Preferences of Patients When Selecting Orthopaedic Providers

Orthopaedic surgery is a male-dominated specialty associated with many stereotypes, despite the increased representation of females compared to 30 years ago. Numerous studies have examined medical student and resident perceptions regarding females in orthopaedic surgery to explain the disparity, but there are few studies that analyze whether patients have a gender preference in their orthopaedic surgeon. Our study sought to determine whether patients have a preference for the gender of their orthopaedic surgeon, and what traits in orthopaedic surgeons are important to their patients.

A total of 191 new patients seen in the emergency department and orthopaedic urgent care clinic were administered a 22-question survey regarding preferences in their orthopaedic provider. Patients were asked questions regarding preferred gender of their provider, as well as preferences in characteristics exhibited.

The majority of patients did not have a preference for the gender of their orthopaedist (83.9%); however, 14.5% of patients preferred a female surgeon and 1.6% of patients preferred a male surgeon. Female patients had a preference for the same gender compared to male patients and preferred females (p=0.04). Of the patients that had a preference, 90% preferred a female provider. There were trends towards preference for gender that varied depending on subspecialty. There was a statistically insignificant trend towards preference for male providers in total joint replacements and spine surgery, and conversely a preference for female providers in hand surgery and pediatric orthopaedics. 48.6% of patients cited the single most important trait to be board certification, followed by years in practice (27.1%), then reputation or prestige (16.7%). Over one-third of patients found physical appearance, gender, racial background and age to be important traits.

The majority of patients did not have a preference for the gender of their orthopaedic surgeon. 16.1% of patients had a preference, and the majority of these patients preferred female surgeons. Preferences for a specific gender were seen that varied based on the subspecialty. Efforts at increasing gender diversity in orthopaedics should continue to be a major goal.Level of Evidence: III.