An AUA Workforce Report: Data From the AUA Census Regarding Workplace Experiences Based on Gender.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Workforce Studies
• Gender Equity in Medicine

Background:

• The American Urological Association (AUA) Workforce Workgroup collects data via the annual AUA Census to understand factors affecting the urologic community.
• Previous analyses have not fully explored gender-specific differences in career satisfaction and workplace experiences within urology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze significant gender-based differences in the urologic workforce using AUA Census data.
• To highlight factors contributing to career dissatisfaction and burnout among female urologists.
• To inform potential interventions aimed at improving gender equity in the field.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of AUA Census data from 2016 to 2021, focusing on responses from self-identified male and female urologists.
• Categorization of responses related to workplace treatment and job satisfaction to identify gender-specific trends.
• Statistical comparison of outcomes between male and female urologists.

Main Results:

• Female urologists reported higher rates of negative differential treatment (66.3% vs 2.7%), gender bias (39.3% vs 1.2%), and work-life conflict (95.4% vs 75%) compared to males.
• Females experienced more barriers to professional success (93% vs 75%) and reported lower job satisfaction regarding work-life balance (39.9% vs 57.7%).
• Burnout rates were higher in females (49.2% vs 35.3%), with significant contributions from educational debt, despite similar average work hours.

Conclusions:

• Substantial gender-based differences exist in career perceptions and workplace experiences within urology.
• Female urologists encounter unique challenges that negatively impact job satisfaction and contribute to burnout.
• Further research and targeted interventions are necessary to address these disparities and promote a more equitable environment for all urologists.