Geographical Distribution of Ophthalmologists in the United States by Gender

Abstract

PURPOSE

Female representation is growing each year in ophthalmology, but women are still underrepresented overall. Because of the potential impact of physician gender on the physician–patient relationship, this imbalance could affect patient outcomes and satisfaction. This study describes the geographic variation of gender disparities in ophthalmology throughout the United States.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Physician characteristics were obtained from the 2023 Medicare Physician Compare National Database for physicians listing “ophthalmology” as their primary specialty. Duplicate physician entries were excluded. The remaining 17,503 physicians were grouped into states, allowing for analysis of gender distribution geographically.

RESULTS

Of the 17,503 ophthalmologists registered on the Medicare Physician Compare, 4,965 were female (28.37%). Gender distributions of ophthalmologists varied among states and regions, with the highest female representation in Massachusetts (41.25%) and the District of Columbia (38.37%). The lowest representation was in Wyoming (9.09%) and Utah (15.73%).

CONCLUSIONS

Geographical gender imbalances may be due to several factors including personal preference, state policies, and family choices. By identifying factors that contribute to where women geographically choose to practice, we can better guide approaches to increase female engagement in areas with the lowest representation to close potential healthcare disparities.