The Washington Post published an article today about the relative dearth of men who sport mustaches as leaders in the medical field. It then goes on to say that, although the number small, it is still larger than the number of women leaders here. For years, men dominated the field of medicine. But, over the past few decades, woman are equalizing the number of men in medicine. So, where are the women leaders in medicine?
Some people postulate that women do most of the child-rearing so hence, they are more absent from the work force. However, if you look at the average age of doctors, it exceeds 50 years of age. This is past the age of child-bearing and most mothers’ children are grown by this time.
What I say is that is just an excuse to justify keeping women out of leadership positions. Women doctors still face the injustices of sexism that existed for women doctors ages ago. I can still walk into many rooms in the hospital and it be assumed that I am a nurse. Nothing wrong with that but that also stereotypes nurses as well There are now many men nurses and I imagine the stereotypical picture of nurses must rub them the wrong way as well.
When you picture a doctor, what is the first imagine that comes to mind? What is the stereotypical imagine of a doctor in this country? I think many people would say a middle-age to older white man. I think you can witness this in many media outlets. Look at marketing materials and you will see this is true.
While some may say that women don’t possess leadership characteristics, I say they are wrong. Many women struggled very hard in the male dominated world of medicine to just graduate. And those coming along later still see this male domination. Many women certainly are very capable leaders. They just aren’t given the opportunity to show it. What many people don’t know is that hospital politics often dictate its leaders. If you are friends with the right person, you will be offered the premium roles. I don’t think any doctor will dispute this.
It is now the 21st century. The number of women doctors is becoming equal to the number of men. It is time to tear down the stereotypes and the gender specified silos. While the author of the linked article may find it humorous that the number of men with mustaches outweigh women in medical leadership positions, it truly is not. The big boys’ club mentality is harming the profession. It is time that the best doctors lead, not the most connected. We are facing many attacks from third parties and mandates, which are truly threatening the way we practice medicine. We need to all join together and make our voices be heard. Whether those voices be male or female do not matter. But, we must put down the stereotypes and allow those with the qualities of being true leaders take the reins. If we don’t, outside forces will do it for us. And women need to grab the lead where and if they are able.
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