Exploring the gender gap in Canadian ophthalmology applicants: a mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education
• Career Development

Background:

• Medical students' perceptions of ophthalmology as a career are crucial for future workforce diversity.
• Under-represented groups, including women and visible minorities, face unique challenges in specialty selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare medical students' perceptions of ophthalmology as a career.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for under-represented students pursuing ophthalmology.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods study involving surveys and thematic analysis of qualitative responses from Canadian medical students.
• Quantitative analysis used nonparametric tests and ordinal logistic regression.
• Qualitative data analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic framework.

Main Results:

• Negative perceptions of ophthalmology increased during medical school (29.9% to 45.5%).
• Only 30.9% viewed ophthalmology as racially diverse and 26.8% as gender-balanced.
• Barriers included competition, limited exposure, lack of mentorship, and high research expectations.

Conclusions:

• Increased early exposure and mentorship can enhance diversity in ophthalmology.
• Promoting diversity initiatives is essential for greater gender and racial representation.
• Addressing perceived barriers may attract a broader range of medical students to the field.