Gender Disparity in Medical Specializations: The Overrepresentation of Female Doctors in Gynecology and the Need for Diversification in Pakistan: Review Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70765/1wydqg59Keywords:
Female doctors, medical specialization, gender disparity, gynecology, Pakistan, KPKAbstract
In Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), cultural and religious norms often restrict women from seeking medical treatment from male doctors, especially in sensitive specialties. Despite this, a disproportionate number of female doctors choose gynecology over other critical fields such as surgery, diabetology, hematology, orthopedics, and urology. This paper examines the factors driving this trend, including societal expectations, institutional biases, and lack of mentorship in non-traditional specialties. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys of female medical students and practitioners with an analysis of specialization trends in KPK hospitals. The findings reveal that while cultural restrictions necessitate more female doctors in all specialties, systemic barriers discourage women from pursuing non-gynecological fields. Policy recommendations include targeted scholarships, mentorship programs, and awareness campaigns to encourage female doctors to diversify their specializations.
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References
1: Ahmed, S., et al. (2021). Gender and Medical Specialization in Pakistan: Trends and Challenges. Journal of Medical Ethics.
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5:Shaikh, B. T., et al. (2019). Gender Disparities in Medical Education: A Case Study of Pakistan. BMC Medical Education.
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