Diversity in surgery: the perceptions of aspiring surgeons

Abstract

Background/Aims This study aimed to explore definitions of diversity, and views and attitudes towards diversity in healthcare among future generations of surgical trainees. Methods This was a prospective, cohort study via an online questionnaire during a virtual, nationwide surgical course, targeted at aspiring surgeons. Results Out of 202 participants, 166 met the inclusion criteria. Participants' definitions of diversity most frequently included race, gender and ethnicity, with fewer than 50.0% recognising pregnancy, communication style or political preference in their definition. Of the respondents, 56.0% (93/166) believed that the surgical community did not do enough to encourage diversity. The rising cost of training, lack of diverse role models and dated ideologies were identified as barriers to achieving greater diversity within surgery. Conclusions Important components of diversity continue to be under-recognised. Surgery must maximise diversity to attract, support and motivate the next generation of surgeons, for the benefit of the health service and the populations it serves.