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A Plausible Pipeline to Diversifying Orthopaedics: Premedical Programming.
Megan D Coffin1, Christine S Collins1, Aseel G Dib1
1University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.
Journal of Surgical Education
|August 6, 2021
Summary
Premedical programming significantly boosted interest in orthopaedics for female students. The Perry Initiative improved perceptions of women
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Medical Education
- Gender in Medicine
Background:
- Female representation in orthopaedics remains low.
- Perceived barriers discourage women from pursuing orthopaedic careers.
- Targeted outreach programs can influence career interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of premedical outreach programs on female students' interest in orthopaedics.
- To evaluate how these programs affect perceptions of barriers for women in the field.
Main Methods:
- A pre- and post-program survey was administered to high school and medical students.
- Participants attended the Perry Outreach Program and Medical Student Outreach Program.
- Surveys assessed interest levels and perceptions of work-life balance and career barriers.
Main Results:
- Interest in orthopaedics increased by 28% in high school and 11% in medical students post-program.
- All participants initially believed women faced more barriers in orthopaedics.
- Perceptions improved regarding work/life balance, family integration, and residency challenges.
Conclusions:
- Premedical outreach programs effectively increase interest in orthopaedics among female students.
- These initiatives can mitigate perceived barriers, encouraging women to enter the field.
- The Perry Initiative positively influenced students' views on women's success in orthopaedic surgery.
