Do reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship websites reflect a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion?

Abstract

Objective

To characterize the frequency of diversity elements (DEs) in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) fellowship websites and analyze these elements according to program characteristics.

Design

Forty-nine REI fellowship websites were assessed for 20 DEs that represent programmatic commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Program websites were categorized by the number of discrete DEs featured: low (0–6); moderate (7–13); or high (14–20). Data were analyzed via R statistical software.

Setting

Not applicable.

Patient(s)

Not applicable.

Exposure

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The primary outcome was the level of DEs featured within REI fellowship websites. The secondary outcome was the association between DEs and program geographic region and accreditation status.

Result(s)

Program websites had a mean of 3 DEs. No program had a high number of DEs. Eighty-four percent of programs were low in DEs, with 16% exhibiting moderate DEs. Within the moderate group, most programs featured photographs of faculty (63%) and fellows (88%), commitment to DEI message (88%), diversity-specific language (88%), DEI webpage (88%), and DEI-related resources/opportunities (100%). In the low group, most programs presented photographs of faculty and fellows (71%). Programs did not feature active recruitment strategies (unconscious bias, holistic application review, DEI statistics, and implicit bias training). Diversity element category was not associated with program location. Programs with “initial accreditation” had the highest mean DEs.

Conclusion(s)

None of the REI fellowship websites demonstrated high levels of DEs. We speculate that by intentionally incorporating DEs into fellowship websites, programs can more effectively recruit underrepresented fellows and enhance the diversity of REI practitioners.