Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Among Anesthesiology Trainees

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Workforce Diversity
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Historically, women and minority groups have been underrepresented in medicine.
• This underrepresentation is particularly notable within the anesthesiology workforce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the current diversity of anesthesiology residents by race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
• To assess factors influencing the pursuit of anesthesiology, including mentorship and faculty diversity.
• To identify experiences of discrimination within the anesthesiology residency application and training process.

Main Methods:

• A validated survey was administered to anesthesiology program directors and residents.
• Data collected included demographics (gender identity, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity), motivations for choosing anesthesiology, and training experiences.
• The study was conducted between February and April 2021, with 135 resident responses.

Main Results:

• The resident sample comprised 54.1% male, 44.4% white, and 83.7% heterosexual individuals.
• Role models/mentors were important for 67.2% of respondents pursuing anesthesiology.
• Discrimination was reported by 18.7% of residents based on gender/gender identity and race/ethnicity, and 4.4% based on sexual orientation.

Conclusions:

• Discrimination based on race/ethnicity, gender, and gender identity persists among anesthesiology trainees.
• There is a need to foster inclusive and supportive environments for all trainees.
• Implementing targeted interventions can potentially enhance diversity within the field of anesthesiology.