Women anaesthesiologists' attitudes and reported barriers to career advancement in anaesthesia: a survey of the European Society of Anaesthesiology

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have confirmed gender imbalance in anaesthesia leadership. Whether women anaesthesiologists aspire to career advancement has not been reported. This European Society of Anaesthesiology (ESA) survey explored anaesthesiologists' motivation to advance their careers into leadership positions, and to identify reported barriers to advancement.

Methods

ESA members (n=10 033, 5245 men, 3759 women, 1029 undefined) were invited to complete a 25-item, Internet-based survey, and responses were analysed thematically.

Results

In total, 3048 ESA members (1706 women, 1342 men, 30% of all members) responded to the survey. The majority were specialists, married or with a partner, and have children; 47% of women and 48% of men wish to pursue a leadership career. Barriers to career promotion noted by women were primarily attributed to work–private time considerations (extra workload and less personal time [84%], responsibility for care of family [65%], lack of part-time work opportunities [67%]), and the shift away from clinical work [59%]). Men respondents indicated the same barriers although the proportions were significantly lower. Considerations related to the partner (lack of support, career development of partner) were last on the list of variables reported by women as barriers. Importantly, many women noted deficiencies in leadership (68%) and research education (55%), and women role models (41%) and self-confidence (44%).

Conclusions

This is the largest survey to date of women anaesthesiologists' view on career advancement. Despite the many barriers noted by women, they are as eager as men to assume leadership positions. The survey results help in identifying possible areas for intervention to assist in career development.