A Trend, Analysis, and Solution on Gender Distribution in North America Diagnostic Radiology

Purpose: Statements of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) have been issued by Faculties of Medicine across the country. Despite the demonstrated benefits of EDI, women remain underrepresented in North America Radiology. In this study, we systematically reviewed the literature to present the status of women in Radiology. In addition, we offer potential solutions for professional associations and radiology departments to increase diversity with the ultimate goal of improving patient care.

Methods/Materials: Using MESH terms “gender disparity” and “radiology,” we searched Ovid Medline, Embase, Pubmed and Scopus for related literature, screened 326 articles and selected 52 articles for full-text review.

Results: Gender disparity persists among radiology residents. There has been little progress in bridging this gap over the past ten years. Similar underrepresentation was seen in faculty positions, leadership, research and income. This trend has become a point of interest in recent years and is the focus of this research.

Conclusions: The goal was to identify the specifics of this disparity, analyze them and provide remedies to address this gross inequality. Potential solutions to increase diversity include increasing preclinical observerships, improving program culture and work environment, increasing female representatives, supporting radiology resident parents, and increasing mentorship opportunities. Implementing these solutions is likely to close the gender gap in radiology and promote an increased interest by women in radiology and its specialties."