Diversity in Academic Otolaryngology: An Update and Recommendations for Moving From Words to Action

Objectives: (1) To investigate the state of diversity and inclusion initiatives in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) as compared to general surgery and (2) assess their effects on female representation in these programs. Methods: The websites of OHNS residency programs, general surgery residency programs, and their associated academic medical institutions were indexed for content related to diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives. Gender data were gathered and used as a proxy for identity diversity. Results: All programs surveyed (N = 198) have D&I programs at the institutional level and have an office of D&I (or equivalent program). However, only 18% of general surgery programs and 19% of otolaryngology programs have additional department-level D&I initiatives. There was an increase in the proportion of female residents across all residency programs if the program mentioned D&I on their website (44% vs 38%, P = .004) and if the program reported a D&I initiative (45% vs 38%, P < .001). Conclusion: Despite the ACGME's recent emphasis on the importance of recruiting and retaining a diverse physician workforce, the minority of otolaryngology residency programs advertise any concerted, department-level efforts toward increasing D&I at their residency program. General surgery programs have a significantly higher proportion of female department chairs and higher mean proportion of female residents when compared to OHNS. Programs that mention the diversity of their residents or faculty on the program website and programs with their own D&I initiatives have a higher mean proportion of female residents.