Solutions for Retention of Female Cardiologists from the Survey of Gender Differences in the Work and Life of Cardiologists

Abstract

Background: To prevent a future shortage of cardiologists, it is important for female cardiologists to continue working. Gender differences in the professional and private lives of cardiologists, as well as the barriers to work for female cardiologists, were surveyed. Methods and Results: In August 2007, a questionnaire was mailed to all 195 faculty members/fellows and 155 alumni of the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Nippon Medical School. More female cardiologists were dissatisfied with their job than male cardiologists (34% vs 17%, P<0.005). Women reported greater career limitation by family responsibilities and housework. Men and women both reported that long working hours was the most problematic issue, but significantly more women reported this than men (76% vs 94%, P<0.05). Female cardiologists were more concerned about occupational radiation exposure (88% vs 59%, P<0.01) and wanted opportunities for retraining after childcare leave (100% vs 76%, P<0.01). Conclusions: The following measures should be taken: (1) establishment of more family-friendly working conditions in hospitals, (2) provision of various work positions that allow more flexibility and predictability for women, (3) establishment of a retraining system, and (4) development of work and research opportunities that are attractive to women. The Japanese Circulation Society is expected to establish a retraining system at certified institutions.