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Academic profiles and factors influencing gender disparity in general surgery residency leadership
1Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Introduction:
Despite the growing number of female surgeons, women's representation in general surgery (GS) leadership remains limited. This study evaluated the academic profile between genders in GS residency leadership to investigate factors contributing to gender disparity.
Methods:
Information on GS residency programs and their leadership was collected in December 2024 using public databases and institutional websites.
Results:
Within 363 GS residency programs, 1070 leaders were identified: 66.6% men and 33.4% women. Men represented the majority in all leadership positions and academic ranks, except assistant professor. Men had significantly higher median years in practice and scholarly output (p < 0.001), but when adjusted for career length (m-index), there was no significant difference (p = 0.84).
Conclusion:
Gender disparity in GS residency leadership persists, particularly at the department chair level, despite similar academic profiles between genders. This disparity appears driven by academic rank and seniority. Expanding opportunities for academic promotion and a more holistic leadership selection may improve equity.
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