"Bridging the Gap: Trends in Minority Representation Among Trainees in Plastic Surgery"

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Specialties
• Health Equity

Background:

• Equitable representation in medicine is crucial for addressing health disparities in an increasingly diverse U.S.
• This study examines demographic trends in plastic surgery trainees compared to peer specialties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate demographic trends among plastic surgery trainees from 2017-2023.
• To compare these trends with those in orthopedic surgery, otolaryngology, general surgery, internal medicine, and family medicine.

Main Methods:

• Data on applicant and trainee demographics were sourced from AAMC's ERAS Statistics and GME Track databases.
• Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, two-proportion z-tests, and linear regression to compare trends.

Main Results:

• Female applicants and residents in plastic surgery showed significant annual growth, achieving gender parity among residents.
• While Black applicant numbers remained stable, resident numbers increased; Hispanic applicant interest rose, but resident numbers declined.
• Plastic surgery demonstrated higher growth rates in female applicants and residents compared to some peer specialties, but similar underrepresentation patterns for Black and Hispanic trainees were observed across fields.

Conclusions:

• Plastic surgery has successfully achieved gender parity in its residency programs.
• Despite increased applicant interest, underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic residents persists, indicating ongoing structural barriers.
• These diversity challenges in plastic surgery mirror those in other medical specialties, highlighting the need for systemic solutions.