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.
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.