Half of orthopedic surgeons and trainees report experiencing bullying, discrimination or differential treatment by colleagues in the workforce, according to a study published Feb. 28 in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.
Researchers interviewed 156 surgeons and trainees who are members of Pride Ortho, a community of musculoskeletal specialists that works to promote diversity, equity and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ orthopedic patients and improve opportunities for LGBTQ+ physicians.
The survey found that the majority of LGBTQ+ professionals are open about their identities at work, but 50% of those professionals responded "yes" when asked if they experienced bullying, discrimination, or being treated differently in the workplace, and 24% responded "maybe.".
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Toledo (Ohio) Colleges of Medicine and Engineering, Columbia-based University of Missouri, the Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans and Columbus, Ohio-based Nationwide Children's Hospital. The study authors recommend health systems establish mentorship programs to foster a sense of belonging and engagement as well as diversity and sensitivity training programs.