The Female Question: Should more be done to increase the ranks of female otolaryngologists?

Dr. Brodsky pointed out that more publications addressing women surgeons’ issues have been published in the ACS journal, and specifically noted a recent survey, “Career Satisfaction of Women in Surgery: Perceptions, Factors, and Strategies” (J Am Coll Surg. 2010;210(1):23-28). In partnership with the Association of Women Surgeons, the ACS also funded a 2009 study, “Women Surgeons in the New Millennium,” (Arch Surg. 2009;144(7):635-42) that suggested optimizing maternity leave and child care opportunities as strategies for including more women in surgical specialties.

Balancing a work and family schedule was one attraction for Dr. Ponsky’s career direction. She is one of two female otolaryngologists who have part-time positions in the department at Case Medical Center.

“Because we have all these subspecialties under the general otolaryngology ‘umbrella,’ this enables people to make a variety of career choices—and is a very good field for females seeking a healthy balance of career and family,” Dr. Ponsky added. ENTtoday

TOP IMAGE SOURCE: BTRENKEL/ISTOCK.COM