Strategies for Attracting Women and Underrepresented Minorities in Urology.

Abstract

This article summarizes the current state of underrepresented minorities (URM) and women within urology. Specific strategies to promote the recruitment and retention of URM and women within urology are discussed. Minorities and women remain underrepresented within urology, a disparity that has roots as early as medical school and persists throughout residency and practice. This is likely due to implicit and explicit bias, lack of role models, and persistent disparities in compensation and promotion. Strategies to improve recruitment and retention of these individuals should focus on increasing early exposure to urology, opportunities for mentorship, and support in professional development. Creation of a supportive institutional culture, consideration of alternative career advancement paths, and intentional diversity-focused recruitment efforts are also critical. Successful recruitment and retention of URM and women in urology requires specific, directed efforts to increase opportunities for exposure, mentorship, and career promotion at a programmatic, institutional, and national level.