Patient-provider gender preference in colorectal surgery

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Patient Preference
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Patient preference for a same-gender surgeon is documented for private health concerns.
• This study investigates gender preference in colorectal surgery patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine gender concordance in surgeon selection among colorectal patients.
• To identify factors influencing patient choice of a colorectal surgeon based on gender.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, observational study over 3 weeks.
• New patient calls were recorded, noting surgeon selection factors.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic and preference data.

Main Results:

• 16.7% of 60 new patients requested a surgeon based on gender.
• 70% of patients with gender requests were female, and 80% chose a gender-concordant surgeon.
• Anorectal complaints were associated with a higher rate of gender requests (20.6%).

Conclusions:

• A significant number of patients seek gender concordance with their surgeon, especially for anorectal conditions.
• Colorectal departments should consider gender diversity to foster patient trust and provide sensitive, patient-centered care.