While women make up about 30% of U.S. surgeons overall, they account for less than 10% of cardiothoracic surgeons, according to a Nov. 29 report by The New York Times.
Over 230 women — including thoracic surgeons as well as medical students, residents and fellows — attended the second annual Women in Thoracic Surgery conference held in early November in Fernandina Beach, Fla., the report said.
Here are five findings from the conference, as reported by the Times:
- About 500 women are certified as thoracic surgeons in the U.S., though fewer are currently in practice.
- Surveys showed female thoracic surgeons earn 20% less and are promoted at lower rates than male peers with comparable experience.
- Compared to their male counterparts, surveyed female thoracic surgeons reported feeling less prepared for salary negotiations and more concerned that requesting a pay increase would reflect poorly on them.
- Female thoracic surgeons also reported experiencing “persistent sexual harassment on the job.”
- While women make up 25% of cardiothoracic trainees, attrition remains high.
Read the full report here.
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