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Impact of Workplace Microaggressions on Surgeon Career Status and Trajectory: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Christine A Heisler1, Amy L Godecker2, Deborah Verran3
1From the Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Urology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI.
Background:
Microaggressions in healthcare are associated with higher rates of part-time employment and early retirement, exacerbating the surgeon workforce shortage. However, the direct impact on surgeon career has not been investigated.
Methods:
This cross-sectional survey study evaluated career status and trajectory among American College of Surgeons (ACS) members who experienced workplace microaggressions. The survey was administered through the ACS Online Communities from November 2022 to January 2023. Primary outcomes were to characterize career impact and determine whether surgeons would choose a career in surgery again.
Results:
Of 377 ACS survey respondents, 249 (66.0%) experienced workplace microaggressions with 143 (of 249, 57.4%) taking action. When a supervisor was the perpetrator, career impact included microaggression escalation (P < 0.001) and changing jobs with a demotion (P = 0.025). Women surgeons who took action against microaggressions were less likely to report resolution of the microaggression than men surgeons (12.9% vs 39.1%, P = 0.005). Retaliation and no employer response were more common for women (P = 0.047), younger surgeons (P = 0.031) and those in specific surgical subspecialties (P = 0.035). Surgeons who experienced microaggressions in 2 or 3 jobs (out of 2 or 3 jobs) (n = 122) were more likely to say they would not choose a career in surgery again (P = 0.003).
Conclusions:
The professional role of the perpetrator directly impacted surgeon career trajectory, especially if the perpetrator was the supervisor. Addressing and mitigating workplace microaggressions could increase retention, and ensure access for patients who require surgical management.
Insights
Workplace microaggressions significantly impact surgeons
Area of Science:
- Medical Professionalism
- Workplace Psychology
- Surgical Career Development
Background:
- Microaggressions in healthcare settings negatively affect surgeon retention and contribute to workforce shortages.
- Previous research indicates links between microaggressions and part-time employment or early retirement among surgeons.
- The specific impact of microaggressions on individual surgeon career paths remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the career status and trajectory of American College of Surgeons (ACS) members experiencing workplace microaggressions.
- To determine the direct effects of microaggressions on surgeons' career progression and job satisfaction.
- To assess whether surgeons who experienced microaggressions would choose surgery as a career again.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was distributed to American College of Surgeons (ACS) members.
- The survey was conducted via ACS Online Communities between November 2022 and January 2023.
- Key outcomes measured included career impact, actions taken, and willingness to pursue surgery again.
Main Results:
- 66.0% of 377 respondents reported experiencing workplace microaggressions; 57.4% took action.
- Perpetrator's role mattered: supervisor-perpetrated microaggressions led to escalation and demotions.
- Women surgeons faced less resolution, more retaliation, and employer inaction compared to men.
- Surgeons experiencing microaggressions across multiple jobs were significantly less likely to choose surgery again.
Conclusions:
- The perpetrator's professional role, particularly supervisors, significantly influences surgeon career trajectories.
- Addressing workplace microaggressions is crucial for improving surgeon retention.
- Mitigating microaggressions can help ensure continued patient access to surgical care.
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