Female doctors in Victoria, 1977

Area of Science:

• Medical Workforce Analysis
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• In 1977, the medical workforce in Victoria comprised 17% female practitioners.
• A higher proportion of female doctors were observed among recent graduates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the distribution and working patterns of female medical practitioners in Victoria in 1977.
• To assess the implications of a growing female physician population on Australia's medical manpower.

Main Methods:

• Survey data from registered medical practitioners in Victoria in 1977.
• Comparative analysis of working status, practice type, and hours between male and female doctors.

Main Results:

• Female doctors were less represented in private specialist practice (8%) compared to general practice (15%) and salaried positions (20-40%).
• 38% of female doctors worked part-time, significantly higher than their male counterparts.
• Female doctors had higher rates of temporary non-work and retirement compared to males.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights disparities in specialty distribution and working hours between male and female doctors.
• The increasing number of female doctors necessitates consideration of part-time training and work opportunities.
• Future medical workforce planning must account for the changing demographics and working patterns of female physicians.