Status of women in urology: Based on a report to the society of university urologists

Purpose: Written responses from American trained women in urological surgery were obtained to evaluate practice patterns, career choices and workplace satisfaction. Materials and Methods: A 3-page unblinded questionnaire was mailed in March 2003 to American trained women in urological surgery available through the databases of the Society of Women in Urology with subsequent statistical analysis. Results: The response rate was 60% but inclusive of all women in current academic practice in the United States. A total of 61% reported working 51 or more hours a week whereas 2% have left practice due to retirement or medical infirmity. There were 41% who had completed fellowships including 87% reporting active practice within their subspecialty, whereas 62% of fellowship trained surgeons remained in an academic practice. Among United States women in academic urological practice, academic progression has occurred in a third of this cohort. Conclusions: Threats to successful practice, consistent with other workplace surveys of physicians and professional women including gender based role limitation and inadequate mentoring, were commonly reported. These correctable workplace deficiencies represent an opportunity for American urology to enhance the professional workplace for all urologists regardless of gender.