Societal impact of increasing the visibility of women in biomedical and clinical research

Abstract

Gender disparity between men and women has been brought to light recently, highlighting inequalities within the fields of medicine and academia. Achieving equality within these professions is beneficial not only to women but for medicine, research, and patients. Diversity in fields of practice ensures a variety of thought, innovation, stronger teams and better outcomes for all. Women are less likely to be recognised as experts and leaders, with fewer women speaking at national medical conferences, receiving prestigious awards, being promoted or holding leadership roles. This article presents the societal impacts based on outcomes from several sources, including our recent research exploring gendered transitions experienced by female surgeons, our recent women's conference and best practices from industry and the university sector aimed at addressing the barriers faced by women in academic and clinical medicine. The main societal impacts include (i) increasing awareness of gender disparity through knowledge transfer, (ii) improving representation and advancement opportunities for Women, and (iii) developing partnerships to achieve and promote equity.