517 Ethnic Diversity in the English Urology Workforce and BAUS Leadership 2009-2020: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Aim Little is known about the ethnic composition of the national urology workforce. To assess the impact of existing strategies to promote equitable progression, with respect to ethnicity, in the English urology workforce and British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) leadership between 2009 and 2020. Method A Freedom of Information (FOI) Act request was made to NHS Digital regarding demographic data of clinicians working in urology in England between 2009 and 2020. Data was collected on urology consultants, specialist registrars, specialty, and associate specialist (SAS) doctors over this period. The ethnicities of British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) Trustees and Council Members were determined over the same period, by review of public profiles. Statistical analysis was performed using the Cochran-Armitage test. Results The proportion of consultant urologists identified as White decreased from 65.5% to 53.6%, p<.0001), while the proportion of Asian/Asian British consultants increased (26.9% to 36.6%, p<.0001). There was a significant increase in Black/Black British trainees (3.0% to 11.0%, p<0.0001) but a decrease in the proportion of Asian/Asian British trainees. There was a non-significant decrease in the proportion of White urologists occupying BAUS leadership positions (80.6% to 67.6%, p = 0.5). Conclusions Trends towards increased ethnic diversity was seen across all groups, especially consultants. More limited change was observed in the urology leadership, suggesting both a time lag and that there is further work to be done in addressing barriers to progression in the highest echelons of urology leadership in the UK.