P.133 Women in Canadian neurosurgery: an update

Abstract

Background: Women continue to represent a minority of the neurosurgery workforce in Canada. We herein aim to provide an update of the current Canadian landscape to gain a better understanding of the factors contributing to this disparity. Methods: Chain-referral sampling, interviews, personal communications, and online resources were used as data sources. Online survey results obtained from women attending neurosurgeons across Canada were also utilized. Quantitative analyses were performed, including summary and comparative statistics. Qualitative analyses of free-text responses were performed using axial and open coding. Results: We observe a positive trend in the incoming and graduating of female residents across the country, although this trend is lagging compared to other surgical specialties. The proportion of women in active practice remains low. Positive enabling factors for success include supportive colleagues and work environment (52.6%), academic accomplishments (36.8%), and advanced fellowship training (47.4%). Perceived barriers reported included inequalities regarding career advancement opportunities (57.8%), conflicting professional and personal interests (57.8%), and lack of mentorship (36.8%). Conclusions: Women continue to represent a small proportion of practicing neurosurgeons across Canada. Our work highlights several key factors contributing to the low representation of women in neurosurgery and identifies actionable items that can be addressed by training programs and institutions.