Workplace equity in radiology: a nationwide survey by the Radiological Society of Finland

Abstract

Objectives: The issue of equity among medical professionals has been extensively discussed in recent literature. Gender inequity, in particular, is a well-documented phenomenon within scientific communities. The Radiological Society of Finland undertook a national survey to assess equity among radiologists in Finland, with the primary hypothesis of equity prevailing in the radiological community.

Methods: A cross-sectional study in the form of an online questionnaire was developed to investigate occupational equity and demographic variables. This survey was disseminated to the heads of radiological departments in all Finnish public healthcare units and the largest radiological units within the private sector, with instructions to distribute to their medical staff. The questionnaire was accessible for responses from May 1 to June 16, 2024.

Results: A total of 259 answers were received, representing 31% of all radiologists and residents working in Finland. Among the respondents, 137/259 (52.9%) identified as female, 118/259 (45.6%) male, and 1/259 (0.4%) other, with three choosing not to answer. A significant proportion, 63/259 (24.3%), reported having witnessed discriminatory behavior, while 41/259 (15.8%) had personally experienced discrimination. The prevalence of respondents having witnessed workplace discrimination was notably higher in female respondents (42/131, 32.1%) than in males (18/113, 15.9%) or others (0%) (p = 0.012). The most cited bases for discrimination included gender, opinion, age, and cultural background.

Conclusions: Perceived discrimination is prevalent within the Finnish radiological community. Gender was reported as the most common suspected grounds of perceived discriminatory behavior.

Critical relevance statement: This study is the first to explore equity and diversity among radiologists in Finland. This broader approach offers a more comprehensive perspective, and the findings aim to support efforts toward greater inclusivity and equity within the field.

Key points: One-quarter of radiologists in Finland reported witnessing and one-sixth reported personally experiencing discrimination in the workplace. Gender was suspected to be the most common basis for discrimination, followed by differences in opinion, age, and cultural background. Respondents were largely unaware of whether the reported incidents had been addressed. Increasing transparency and communication may help reduce perceived discrimination.

Keywords: Diversity; Equity; Occupational wellbeing.

Fig. 1

Demographic data of the respondents

Fig. 2

Distributions of responses to workplace and subspecialty questions

Fig. 3

Response distribution between genders of perceived equity questions on the possibilities to engage in scientific activities and the recruitment issues

Fig. 4

Response distribution between genders of perceived equity questions on salary, distribution of work tasks, career advancement, and training and learning opportunities