Reasons for Women Surgeon Attrition From the US Workforce

With a projected shortage of over 30,000 surgeons by 2034, understanding and reducing nonretirement attrition is critical to maintaining a sustainable surgical workforce. Prior studies show higher attrition rates among women surgeons but have limited insight into the reasons behind these decisions. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to consideration of workforce attrition among women surgeons and to highlight modifiable elements that may support retention.

An anonymous online survey was distributed to the Association of Women Surgeons email list and women surgeons' WhatsApp groups between October and December 2024. Respondents were asked whether they had considered leaving the surgical workforce for reasons unrelated to retirement and about factors contributing to both their consideration of leaving and their decision to remain. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

The response rate was 15%. Of 371 total female respondents, 242 (65%) reported having considered or currently considering leaving surgery. The top reasons cited were poor work-life balance (71%), overly demanding work (57%), and discrimination or mistreatment (50%), among whom 96% reported gender-based discrimination. Primary factors for staying included financial necessity (61%), good patient relationships (60%), and collegial support (54%). Among those who considered but decided not to leave, improved work-life balance (43%), increased compensation (26%), and improved workplace relationships (26%) were the most common influences.

Attrition among women surgeons stems from systemic challenges. Interventions targeting work-life balance, compensation, and workplace inclusion may meaningfully support retention and help sustain a diverse and effective surgical workforce.