Gender in Industry Payments

Relationships between medical device, biotechnology, and other health care industry partners and surgeons can be mutually beneficial while simultaneously improving patient care when done ethically. Orthopedic surgery as a field has historically received the largest total payment amounts from industry partners within health care. However, detailed assessment of these relationships has identified notable gender disparities, with women receiving significantly fewer total payments and payment amounts even when accounting for years of experience. Fortunately, progress has been made to resolve this issue. Engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure equal opportunity for fruitful industry relationships for all orthopedic surgeons is warranted.