61 Investigating Barriers to Surgical Careers and Addressing the Growing Need for Diverse Role Models in Surgery Through a Mentoring Event

Abstract

Abstract Aim Attrition of females during surgical training remains a significant problem; only 14.7% become consultants. This project aimed to assess barriers to surgical careers and provide diverse role models to support uptake. Method A mentoring event was held, first-of-its-kind locally, including surgeons from diverse backgrounds and career stages discussing career journeys, work-life balance, parenthood, and less-than-full-time training. Surveys were disseminated before (“pre-event”), immediately after (“post-event”), and five months later (“follow-up”), to assess longevity of impact. Surveys involved open-ended and Likert-scale questions (‘10=very-much’; ‘0=not at all’) across a series of statements assessing opinion regarding surgical careers. Descriptive statistics and thematic qualitative analysis were undertaken. Results Students identifying as female across all year-groups from London completed pre-event (n=25), post-event (n=25), and follow-up (n=11) surveys. More students were considering surgical careers following the event (score ≥7/10: pre-event 76%; post-event 92%; follow-up 91%). The most common uncertainties and worries reduced after the event: work-life balance (pre-event 48%; post-event 24%); and parenthood (32%;24%). However, remaining concerns included the training pathway (32%;36%) and competitiveness (20%;36%), with 18% citing sexual harassment as a deterrent at follow-up. 84% scored ≥8/10 stating the event strengthened their decision to become a surgeon. The event met all expectations, exceeding in 28%. The format was well received (60% scoring 10/10), and 96% signed for additional mentoring. Conclusions The value of mentoring through a single evening and early support in decision making is potentially beneficial to career progression for aspiring surgeons. Continuous support in the form of further evenings and long-term mentoring should be explored.