Dissecting Diversity: A Comprehensive Look at the Present Landscape and Future Challenges in Surgical Specialties

Abstract

Background: As the US demographic evolves, surgical fields must adapt to ensure equitable healthcare. Healthcare disparities notably affect minority populations, with communities of color often facing physician shortages and higher rates of diseases such as coronary disease, stroke, and cancer. Research shows that minority physicians significantly improve patient satisfaction and outcomes in underserved communities, highlighting the need for increased physician diversity to enhance cultural competency and patient centered care. Data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) reveals minimal increases in underrepresented minorities (URM) in surgical residency and academic careers over the past thirty-six years, with little change URM applicants and matriculants in the nine surgical specialties recognized by the American College of Surgeons from 2010 to 2018.

Objective: This review aims to critically evaluate the current landscape of racial and gender diversity in six out of the nine defined surgical specialties (general surgery, plastic surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and vascular surgery) in the US.

Design: We conducted a comprehensive literature review to assess of the state of diversity within surgical specialties in the United States. By analyzing the benefits of diversity in surgical fields, evaluating the effectiveness of various diversity programs and initiatives, examining the comparative diversity between surgical subspecialties, and assessing the impact of diversity on patient outcomes, our aim is to highlight the critical importance of enhancing diversity in surgical fields.

Results: While nuances in representation and diversity vary across surgical specialties, all fields persistently exhibit underrepresentation of certain racial/ethnic groups and persistent gender disparities. These disparities manifest throughout various phases, including in residency, and in the recruitment and retention of URM individuals in surgery and surgical subspecialties. While interventions over the past decade have contributed to improving diversity in surgical fields, significant disparities persist. Limitations include the time required for recent interventions to show significant impacts and the inability of established interventions to eliminate disparities.

Conclusions: Despite the clear benefits, diversity within surgical specialties remains an uphill battle. Addressing the diversity gap in surgical fields is crucial for improving patient outcomes, healthcare access, and workplace environments, requiring strategies such as targeted recruitment, mentorship programs, and addressing systemic biases. This review highlights the undeniable imperative for change and serve a call to action.

Keywords: cultural competency; diversity in surgery; healthcare disparities; mentorship programs; patient outcomes; underrepresented minorities.