Diversity in cardiothoracic surgery: are we making progress?

Area of Science:

• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Medical Education
• Surgical Workforce Diversity

Background:

• Cardiothoracic surgery has historically been a male-dominated medical specialty.
• Progress in gender diversity has been notably slow since the inception of the field.
• Recent initiatives aim to enhance the specialty's appeal to a broader range of trainees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the necessity of proactive measures for achieving diversity in cardiothoracic surgery.
• To emphasize the importance of recruitment, mentorship, support, and sponsorship in cultivating future leaders.
• To underscore the applicability of these principles to both gender and racial/ethnic diversity.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical trends in cardiothoracic surgery diversity.
• Analysis of current strategies to promote inclusivity.
• Examination of programs designed to encourage underrepresented groups.

Main Results:

• Cardiothoracic surgery exhibits persistent underrepresentation across gender, racial, and ethnic lines.
• Targeted programs, such as the American Association for Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Diversity Scholarship, show promising early outcomes.
• A structured approach involving recruitment, mentorship, and sponsorship is essential for progress.

Conclusions:

• Diversity in cardiothoracic surgery is not an automatic outcome but a result of deliberate, sustained efforts.
• Leadership commitment and actionable programs are vital for creating long-term positive change.
• The principles of mentorship and sponsorship are key to developing a diverse pipeline of future surgical leaders.