Extending a Hand: Increasing Diversity at the American Society for Surgery of the Hand

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess diversity among American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) members, ASSH annual meeting attendees, and ASSH annual meeting presenters from 2010 to 2016. We hypothesized that over the past 7 years, the ASSH has seen an increase in diversity in its membership, annual meeting attendance, and presenters.

Methods: Detailed demographic data for membership, annual meeting attendance, and annual meeting presenters were obtained from the ASSH for a 7-year period (2010-2016). The proportion of women, underrepresented minorities (URM), and nationality of members, attendees, and presenters was compared over the 7 years to assess trends and differences.

Results: Membership in ASSH has increased 30.0% over the past 7 years. Whereas United States membership increased by 113 members annually, international membership increased by 53 members annually, reflecting a 136% total increase. The percentage of women and URM attending the annual meeting is higher than the that of women and URM members. There have been increases in the number of women, URM, and international members over this period.

Conclusions: Over the study period, the ASSH membership has seen increases in women and URM representation. International membership has seen substantial growth. In addition, meeting attendance by international members has increased, particularly since implementation of the guest nation program.

Clinical relevance: Women and URM make up an increasing percentage of ASSH members. International members and presenters have also increased. Although diversity has improved over the past several years, the ASSH should continue to efforts toward greater inclusion and representation.

Keywords: American Society for Surgery of the Hand; diversity; gender; representation; underrepresented minority.