Beyond the Binary: Moving the Radiology Workforce Toward Gender Inclusion, From the AJR Special Series on DEI.
Courtney M TomblinsonJustin StowellVaz ZavalettaNicolas FreemanCharlotte J Yong-HingEvelyn F CarrollMarc WillisEfren J FloresLucy B SpallutoPublished in: AJR. American journal of roentgenology (2023)
Gender representation in radiology has traditionally been evaluated and reported through binary models, accompanied by advocacy efforts focused on increasing the number of women in radiology. A paucity of data exists to understand the radiology workforce's entire gender composition, including representation of people who are transgender and gender diverse (TGD). Further, little information exists on how to provide a supportive work environment for radiologists and support staff who identify as belonging to an underrepresented gender minority group. Intentional efforts to comprehensively understand the gender representation of the radiology workforce can help to establish a diverse workforce that is more representative of the patient populations that we serve, while promoting high-quality inclusive healthcare. Moving beyond gender binary thought and practices can help foster a culture of inclusion and belonging in radiology. This article provides practical steps that radiology practices can take to understand and support gender diversity beyond the binary in the radiology workforce, including: providing definitions and inclusive language; understanding limitations of historical gender data collection methods in radiology and relevant published literature; establishing best practices for future data collection; and developing a strategic vision with action items to create a more inclusive work environment.