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- Talk
- 20/09/2022
- UK
Introduction to speakers Kriti Singhania & Karen Chui, Introducing the BOTA & BOA Culture & Diversity Champions Programme, Questions and Discussions
Description
In this session, Marieta Franklin introduces Kriti Singhania, the current Vice President of BOTA and a trainee from the East of England, along with Karen Chui, the inaugural Culture and Diversity representative from the London Deanery, who joins via a recorded talk. Kriti shares insights on the BOA and BOTA Culture and Diversity Champions program, emphasizing its importance in addressing the significant gender disparity within surgical training, particularly in orthopedics. Statistics reveal that while 55% of medical students are female, only 30% enter specialty training in surgery, and a mere 13% attain consultant positions.
Kriti highlights the alarming underrepresentation of women in orthopedics, where female workforce representation is notably low, at only 7%. She calls for a concerted effort to improve diversity across the board, as current initiatives lack sufficient female and minority representation. Discussions focus on identifying barriers within the orthopedic field, fostering inclusivity, and providing a supportive environment for all practitioners.
The newly established Culture and Diversity Champions aim to advocate for inclusiveness within orthopedic environments and address systemic issues impacting retention and recruitment in the specialty. Kriti and Karen note that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done, emphasizing that everyone can play a part in fostering positive change.
Audience participation reveals various perspectives on workplace culture change, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach that includes all members of the surgical team, regardless of their background. A vital theme emerges: creating a positive work culture benefits not only the workforce but also, critically, the patient care provided.