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- Talk
- 09/06/2022
- CANADA
International Voices Roundtable: Challenges, Commonalities and Relevance to Global Orthopaedics: COA - Q & A
Description
The session is a dynamic discussion focused on the topic of diversity and inclusion within the field of orthopedics. It opens with Sotungo from South Africa, who raises a pertinent question about the challenges of retaining women in the profession, emphasizing that while attracting women may be relatively straightforward, fostering an inclusive organizational culture is critical for retention.
Kishore Mulpuri, the moderator, prompts audience interaction by inviting comments on how to improve retention through education and cultural change. Annette Holian stresses the importance of not over-monitoring women in the workforce, advocating for flexible training programs that accommodate different work-life needs.
Serena Hu highlights the essential aspect of inclusion (the 'I' in DEI), focusing on unconscious bias and the importance of creating a culture that welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds. She underscores the need for equal parental leave policies for both men and women to ensure fair treatment.
John Skinner speaks about the significance of changing the culture within orthopedic practice, stating that outdated behaviors and comments must be addressed directly to create a supportive environment. Other participants, including Daniel Guy, stress the challenges posed by micro-aggressions and harassment as significant barriers to attracting future orthopedists.
Brian Bernstein shares his personal insights regarding the need for mentorship, advocating for a supportive network that can help retain talent in the field. The conversation culminates with an acknowledgment of the structural problems within healthcare, including nursing shortages and the backlog of surgeries post-COVID, emphasizing the collaborative effort needed to overcome these challenges.
The participants collectively urge for systematic changes, mentorship opportunities, and a shift away from traditional practices to cultivate an orthopedic community that is not only diverse but also inclusive and supportive.