Women in anesthesiology: Gender stereotypes and prejudice: Women in anesthesiology

Abstract

Introduction: Women make up an increasing portion of the physician workforce in anesthesia, but they are consistently under-represented in academic anesthesiology and leadership positions. The objective of this study is to provide a current update on the role of women in anesthesiology in Belgrade, Serbia. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted during September and October 2013 amongst anesthesiologists at ten tertiary health care institutions in Belgrade. The study population was 272 anesthesiologists. Participants' consent and ethical approval were obtained. The questionnaire captured basic sociodemographic and work-related characteristic information: age, sex, level of academic and professional postgraduate education, the managerial position of the section or department. Sociodemographic characteristics were tested in relation to sex by Pearson's chi-squared test. Results: The response rate was 76.2%. Over two-thirds (70.7%) of respondents were women. One-third of female participants (34.5%) and 23.3% of male participants had obtained additional academic achievements; 35.2% of female participants and 40.0 % of male participants had been in managerial positions. Statistically significant gender discrepancies in the additional academic education and upper-rank leadership positions were not detected. Conclusion: Female anesthesiologists in Serbia have achieved parity with men in the highest academic ranks and leadership positions. These women may play an important role in mentoring future generations of female physicians and inspiring them to achieve their professional goals.