Gender and Racial Demographic Trends in the US Laryngology Workforce (1993-2022)

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Otolaryngology
• Workforce Analysis

Background:

• Laryngology fellowship training has evolved significantly over three decades.
• Formalization of the fellowship within the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) in 2012 marked a key transition point.
• Understanding demographic shifts in fellowship-trained laryngologists (FTLs) is crucial for assessing workforce diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze demographic trends in US laryngology fellowship training from 1993 to 2022.
• To compare these trends before and after the NRMP formalization in 2012.
• To assess changes in gender and racial/ethnic composition of FTLs.

Main Methods:

• A national database of fellowship-trained laryngologists (FTLs) and non-fellowship-trained laryngologists (nFTLs) was compiled.
• Demographic data (graduation year, gender, race/ethnicity) were collected and analyzed.
• NRMP match data from 2012-2022 were obtained to assess fellowship positions and fill rates.

Main Results:

• The NRMP match (2012-2022) averaged 21 programs offering 23 positions, with an average fill rate of 68.8%.
• The FTL growth rate declined from 25.4% (1993-2002) to 10.5% and 6.6% in subsequent periods.
• Between the pre- and post-NRMP periods, the percentage of male FTLs decreased (71.5% to 55.5%), while female FTLs increased (28.5% to 44.5%). No significant change in racial demographics was observed.

Conclusions:

• The post-NRMP formalization period witnessed an expansion in laryngology fellowship training.
• Workforce diversification, particularly in gender, was observed in laryngology fellowships.
• These trends align with broader shifts seen in otolaryngology and the medical field overall.