2023 Senior Fellows Program (2nd & 3rd Year) | August 2023-Faulx

Faulx_Women in gi

Pdf Summary

Ashley L. Faulx, a professor of medicine at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, discusses the increasing presence of women in the field of gastroenterology (GI). She highlights that since 2019, more women have been enrolling in medical school than men, with women making up 51% of medical students. Over an 11-year period, the number of women in GI has increased from 11% to 19%, but there is still work to be done to achieve equal representation. Faulx emphasizes the importance of diversity in the workplace, stating that it leads to a more intelligent and thoughtful approach to problem-solving and innovation. She also mentions the need for pay equity, as women physicians consistently earn less than their male counterparts. Faulx proposes methods to close the gender pay gap, including enhancing salary data transparency and engaging male allies in sponsorship and mentorship. Family leave policies are another challenge for women in GI, and Faulx recommends the development of paid leave policies for all genders. Other challenges for women in GI include ergonomic issues and the timing of fellowships during prime reproductive years. Faulx suggests ways to promote gender equality in the field, such as including women in search and promotion committees, providing grants for career advancement, and offering external coaching. She also highlights the initiatives of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the importance of mentorship and networking opportunities for women in GI. Faulx concludes her presentation by encouraging women to demand their worth, support each other, and take advantage of networking opportunities. She advises those searching for a job to consider the diversity of the faculty and colleagues and to talk with other women about their experiences in the workplace.

Keywords

Ashley L. Faulx

women in gastroenterology

medical school enrollment

gender representation in medicine

diversity in the workplace

gender pay gap

family leave policies

challenges for women in GI

gender equality in medicine

mentorship and networking