Gender Compensation Gap for Ophthalmologists in the First Year of Clinical Practice

Gender of Award Recipients in Major Ophthalmology Societies

“…6 Despite these positive trends, women ophthalmologists are underrepresented at senior academic ranks, 7 editorial board positions, 5 and compensation. 8 Potential disparities in recipients of society awards have yet to be investigated in ophthalmology.…”

Is there a light at the end of the gender inequality tunnel?

“…As shown in the previous report by Jia et al, there is implicit bias in the expectation that women are less capable than men, and subsequently women are paid less. 7 Female authorship and productivity have long been an ongoing concern. The h-index of female editorial members and societies is lower than their male counterparts.…”

“…Ignorance is not a legitimate strategy for equal opportunities, rather it is a way to keep the status quo. 2,7 Several measures can and need to be taken in order to correct this multifaceted problem. As women, serving in leadership roles, we must take responsibility for the training of the next generation of female ophthalmologists.…”

“…Mentorship programs should provide women with negotiation skills (which should be incorporated during medical school or even earlier), 7 assist them in the ability to network, navigate politics and teach them how to delegate their many responsibilities. The skill to network is closely tied to collaborations with industry and further advancement.…”

“…3 A transparent policy is needed to promote equality and facilitate change. 7 Even though there are still many hurdles, and the gaps have been widened during the COVID-19 pandemic, we can see slow and steady progress in female representation in ophthalmology. 12 Gender inequality has numerous and complex causes, extending from early stages of medical education, hospitals and academics, to all facets of society.…”