Gender-Inclusive Fellowship Naming and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Radiology: An Analysis of Radiology Department Websites in Canada and the United States

Abstract

Purpose: Transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) individuals face numerous inequalities in healthcare and there is substantial work to be done in fostering TGNB culturally competent care in radiology. A radiology department’s online presence and use of gender-inclusive language are essential in promoting an environment of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The naming of radiology fellowships and continuing medical education (CME) courses with terminology such as “Women’s Imaging” indicates a lack of inclusivity to TGNB patients and providers, which could result in suboptimal patient care. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of all institutions in Canada and the United States (US) offering training in Breast Imaging, Women’s Imaging, or Breast and Body Imaging. Data was collected from each institution’s radiology department website pertaining to fellowship names, EDI involvement, and CME courses. Results: 8 Canadian and 71 US radiology fellowships were identified. 75% of Canadian and 90% of US fellowships had gender-inclusive names. One (12.5%) Canadian and 29 (41%) US institutions had EDI Committees mentioned on their websites. Among institutions publicly displaying CME courses about breast/body or women’s imaging, gender-inclusive names were used in only 1 (25%) of the Canadian CME courses, compared to 81% of the US institutions. Conclusions: Most institutions in Canada and the US have gender-inclusive names for their radiology fellowships pertaining to breast and body imaging. However, there is much opportunity to and arguably the responsibility for institutions in both countries to increase the impact and visibility of their EDI efforts through creation of department-specific committees and CME courses.

Recommendations for Improving Canadian Radiology Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

“…Choosing gender inclusive terminology, for example using “Breast, Gynecological and Obstetrical Imaging” instead of “Women’s Imaging,” and encouraging pronouns be indicated in virtual meetings and correspondence can have a significant positive effect on staff and patients. 10 Departments should also ensure that adjustable workstation equipment is available and that the workplace is accessible to all.3. Instituting clear policies on harassment and bullying: Radiology departments should have zero tolerance for all forms of violence (discrimination, bullying, harassment etc.)…”

Pioneering EDI in Canadian Academic Radiology

“…This was the first gender inclusive change adopted by any Canadian academic radiology CME event. 4 An event organized by the CVCEDI and sponsored by Vancouver Imaging for International Women's day 2022 included the female URM Presidents of Doctors of BC and BC Radiological Society. UBCREDIC member profiles are featured in addition to EDI resources on the newly created EDI tab on the UBC Radiology website.…”

“…One of the CVCEDI updated the “Women’s Imaging” session to “Breast, Gynecological and Obstetrical Imaging.” This was the first gender inclusive change adopted by any Canadian academic radiology CME event. 4 An event organized by the CVCEDI and sponsored by Vancouver Imaging for International Women’s day 2022 included the female URM Presidents of Doctors of BC and BC Radiological Society.…”

Confronting Our Blind Spots; the Persistent Use of Gender-specific Terminology in Radiology is Harmful

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In this edition of the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, Yan et al have published a thought-provoking study exposing a finding likely overlooked by many radiologists. 1 While the naming of imaging fellowships may seem trivial to some readers, the use of gendered terminology is problematic and harmful.We all work in hospitals, universities, or organisations with mission statements promoting some version of inclusion. In the last few years, pledges and commitments to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) have become commonplace and are often proudly and prominently displayed.

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“…In this edition of the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, Yan et al have published a thought-provoking study exposing a finding likely overlooked by many radiologists. 1 While the naming of imaging fellowships may seem trivial to some readers, the use of gendered terminology is problematic and harmful.…”