Does provider gender matter in endoscopy? An international perspective

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Education
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Growing evidence highlights the impact of provider gender on patient satisfaction, compliance, and outcomes.
• Female patients are more inclined to consider provider gender in physician selection, often preferring female physicians.
• Existing literature indicates a notable gender preference among female patients for female endoscopists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review international literature on patient-provider gender concordance in endoscopic procedures.
• To present the current landscape of gender concordance in gastroenterology.
• To share experiences from the Middle East and propose strategies for advancing women in gastroenterology.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of United States and international literature.
• Analysis of patient-provider gender concordance in endoscopic procedures.
• Case study from an international setting (Middle East).

Main Results:

• Female patients demonstrate a consistent preference for female endoscopists.
• Provider gender concordance influences patient satisfaction and adherence.
• International perspectives reveal varied but significant gender preferences.

Conclusions:

• Patient-provider gender concordance is a critical factor in gastroenterology, particularly for female patients.
• Strategies to promote women in gastroenterology are essential to meet patient preferences and needs.
• Addressing gender preferences can enhance patient care and outcomes in endoscopic procedures.