Analyzing the Current State and Visibility of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives at Urology Residency Programs

Abstract

ObjectiveTo analyze AUA urology residency program websites to determine visibility of DEI initiatives. There is growing interest in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by urology applicants, and in recent years, urology programs have invested in efforts to promote DEI. MethodsAll ACGME-accredited urology residency program with a website were assessed. Military programs were excluded. A DEI Score Card was developed using published pillars of DEI, including five domains: departmental inclusion, pipeline growth, departmental education, community engagement, and faculty demographics. Program Doximity rank, address, and surrounding demographics were collected to determine predictors of investing in DEI. Results141 urology residency websites were included for analysis. Only 40.7% of programs referenced DEI on their webpage, and 21.4% offered funded mentorship opportunities. Department education and community engagement were the least popular initiatives. The Western, Northeastern, and North Central sections had the highest DEI total score with wide variation across domains. Mention of DEI was not associated with program’s county-level social vulnerability or percent minority but was associated with being a top 50 program (OR=4.0; 95% CI 1.8, 8.9; p=0.0007). DiscussionLess than half of academic urology programs' websites referenced DEI initiatives. Using a DEI score card, our study shows that investment in diversity, equity, and inclusion varies widely by AUA section, and greater investment is positively correlated with program rank. Our DEI score card serves as a tool that programs can use to assess their current DEI investment, identify areas for improvement, and ensure existing initiatives are visible to applicants.