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Reasons for Women Surgeon Attrition From the US Workforce
Elisa Bass1, Richard Butterfield2, Ruth Bush3
1Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|February 4, 2026
Summary
Many women surgeons consider leaving due to poor work-life balance and discrimination. Addressing these systemic issues, like improving work-life integration and workplace inclusion, is key to retaining female surgeons.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Workforce Research
- Gender Studies in Medicine
- Occupational Health Psychology
Background:
- A significant projected shortage of surgeons necessitates understanding and reducing attrition.
- Women surgeons exhibit higher attrition rates, with limited insight into contributing factors.
- This study investigates reasons for workforce attrition consideration among women surgeons to identify retention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors contributing to women surgeons considering leaving the workforce.
- To highlight modifiable elements that may support the retention of women surgeons.
- To inform interventions aimed at sustaining the surgical workforce.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey was distributed to women surgeons via email lists and WhatsApp groups.
- Respondents reported on considerations of leaving surgery and factors influencing decisions to stay or leave.
- Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.
Main Results:
- 65% of surveyed women surgeons considered leaving the surgical workforce.
- Top reasons for considering attrition included poor work-life balance (71%), demanding work (57%), and discrimination (50%).
- Key factors for staying were financial necessity (61%), patient relationships (60%), and collegial support (54%).
Conclusions:
- Systemic challenges, including work-life balance and workplace discrimination, drive attrition among women surgeons.
- Interventions focused on improving work-life balance, compensation, and workplace inclusion are crucial for retention.
- Supporting women surgeons is vital for a diverse and effective surgical workforce.
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