Exploring Gender Differences: Training, Practice, and Family Dynamics Among Fellowship-Trained Neurotologists.

Abstract

Objective: To characterize and examine gender differences in training paths, practice patterns, family dynamics, and career trajectories in the field of neurotology.

Study design: Cross-sectional survey.

Setting: Research Electronic Data Capture (RedCap) Framework.

Methods: A survey was created and distributed electronically to fellowship-trained neurotologists in the United States who were identified via publicly available information. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate statistics were performed.

Results: Of the 223 neurotologists invited, 80 (35.8%) responded. Most participants were male (77.5%, n = 62), white (77.5%, n = 62), and aged 41 years or older (81.2%, n = 65). Training and practice patterns showed no significant gender differences. However, women were more likely to have a physician spouse (55.6% vs 25.8%, P = .02), have their first child post-fellowship (55.6% vs 24.2%, P = .007), rely on professional childcare (47.1% vs 22.6%, P = .05), and reduce work hours due to childcare needs (22.2% vs 6.45%, P = .05). Men were more likely to rely on their spouse as the primary caretaker (48.4% vs 5.9%, P = .001). Having a physician spouse was associated with post-fellowship childbearing (48.1% vs 28.9%, P = .041) and increased use of professional childcare (44.3% vs 30.1%, P = .05), regardless of gender.

Conclusion: Although training and practice patterns were similar across genders, significant differences in family structure, childbearing, and caretaking roles suggest that women in neurotology may face unique challenges that could influence their career progression.