ISCCM Position Statement for Improving Gender Balance in Critical Care Medicine

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Medical Education
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Global underrepresentation of women in Critical Care Medicine (CCM) persists.
• Female intensivists face significant challenges in academic and leadership roles.
• The Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine (ISCCM) established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee in 2023 to address gender parity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop evidence-based position statements for improving gender balance in CCM.
• To achieve consensus on key issues affecting women in the field.
• To provide actionable guidance for promoting gender equity within the ISCCM and the broader CCM community.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi process was employed, involving 38 panelists (53% women).
• Consensus was reached on 18 statements (95% agreement).
• 15 position statements were drafted based on the consensus findings.

Main Results:

• Consensus was achieved on 18 statements addressing gender balance in CCM.
• 15 position statements were formulated, advocating for equal opportunities in recruitment and workplace inclusivity.
• Recommendations include preventing harassment and enhancing female representation in leadership, nominations, and conferences.

Conclusions:

• The ISCCM position statements represent a significant step towards achieving gender equity in CCM.
• Implementation, advocacy, and impact evaluation are crucial for realizing the goals of these statements.
• These guidelines offer valuable direction for fostering a more balanced and inclusive environment in critical care medicine.