Where Are the Women: Evolution of Women's Specialty Organizations

Women emerged against significant obstacles in the nineteenth century to claim a right to participate in the health professions. Women were excluded from many areas of medical and dental practice until well after the 1964 Civil Rights Act forbade discrimination on the basis of sex. Their entry has been, and continues to be, blocked by discrimination, misogyny, and harassment both personal and institutional. The formation of women-specific surgical subspecialty organizations has improved access to mentoring, sponsorship, and acceptance. This article reviews the history of some of the older organizations with recommendations for OMFS women's action.