Does Gender Still Matter? Women Physicians' Self-Reported Medical Education Experiences

Presentation Type

Poster/Portfolio

Presenter Major(s)

Women and Gender Studies, Biomedical Sciences

Mentor Information

Julia Mason, masonja@gvsu.edu

Department

Women and Gender Studies

Location

Kirkhof Center KC44

Start Date

13-4-2011 11:00 AM

End Date

13-4-2011 12:00 PM

Keywords

Gender, Health and Wellness

Abstract

Many medical schools have developed programs to recruit women which has led to an increase in women attending medical schools. However, increasing participation has not eliminated gender bias in either the curriculum or the treatment of students. This research identifies areas for improving medical education in order to improve the delivery of health care for women. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 women physicians. Gender role assumptions impact women physicians' experiences as medical students and in practice. Marginalities in women's health education exist impacting physicians' preparedness for treating female patients. Eight physicians reported having experienced or witnessed sexual harassment. Random assignment of mentors and students detracted from the meaningfulness of mentorship programs. Support from medical institutions to establish equitable environments will ensure diverse opportunities for women in the field as well as comprehensive women's healthcare.

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Apr 13th, 11:00 AM Apr 13th, 12:00 PM

Does Gender Still Matter? Women Physicians' Self-Reported Medical Education Experiences

Kirkhof Center KC44

Many medical schools have developed programs to recruit women which has led to an increase in women attending medical schools. However, increasing participation has not eliminated gender bias in either the curriculum or the treatment of students. This research identifies areas for improving medical education in order to improve the delivery of health care for women. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 women physicians. Gender role assumptions impact women physicians' experiences as medical students and in practice. Marginalities in women's health education exist impacting physicians' preparedness for treating female patients. Eight physicians reported having experienced or witnessed sexual harassment. Random assignment of mentors and students detracted from the meaningfulness of mentorship programs. Support from medical institutions to establish equitable environments will ensure diverse opportunities for women in the field as well as comprehensive women's healthcare.