DEIBXXEM2417 - CME/CMLE - Recognition Awards in Pathology Specialty Societies – Gender Analysis Among Physician Recipients-Recognition Awards in Pathology Specialty Societies – Gender Analysis Among Physician Recipients

Recognition Awards in Pathology Specialty Societies – Gender Analysis Among Physician Recipients

Pdf Summary

The study published in the American Journal of Clinical Pathology examines gender disparities in recognition awards given by major pathology societies in the United States. The researchers investigated award data from January 2015 to December 2021 across three major pathology organizations—American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), College of American Pathologists (CAP), and United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology (USCAP). This study hypothesizes that women pathologists are underrepresented in these awards compared to their workforce presence.<br /><br />Data for 26 types of awards given to 230 physician recipients were analyzed. Results showed that only 30.9% of these awards were given to women, whereas men received 69.1%. This underrepresentation contrasts with Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) benchmarks, where women made up between 36.7% and 43.4% of pathologists. Prestigious awards were similarly skewed, with only 30.1% awarded to women. Men were also more likely to receive multiple awards.<br /><br />The study concludes that women physicians are disproportionately underrecognized in pathology awards, with the disparity more pronounced in prestigious and multiple-award categories. The researchers argue against the "pipeline" excuse, noting that women have constituted over one-third of the pathology workforce for years. They call for transparency and review in award nomination and selection processes to address implicit biases and ensure gender equity.<br /><br />The findings underline the broader issue of slow career advancement for women in academic medicine. Other specialties facing similar disparities have implemented measures like transparent metrics and diversity-focused committees, providing a potential roadmap for pathology societies to improve gender equity. Further research is warranted to explore the causes behind these disparities and their impact on professional development for women pathologists.

Keywords

gender disparities

pathology awards

American Journal of Clinical Pathology

recognition awards

women pathologists

award data

underrepresentation

gender equity

implicit biases

career advancement