Female patient preferences regarding physician gender: a national survey

• Published in: Minerva ginecologica Vol. 72; no. 1; p. 25
• Main Authors: Tam, Tiffanie Y, Hill, Austin M, Shatkin-Margolis, Abigail, Pauls, Rachel N
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Italy 01.02.2020
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Career Choice; Clinical Competence; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Gynecology - statistics & numerical data; Humans; Middle Aged; Obstetrics - statistics & numerical data; Patient Preference; Physicians - statistics & numerical data; Physicians, Women - statistics & numerical data; Sex Factors; Socioeconomic Factors; Students, Medical - psychology; Students, Medical - statistics & numerical data; Surveys and Questionnaires - statistics & numerical data; United States; Young Adult; United States
• ISSN: 1827-1650
• DOI: 10.23736/S0026-4784.20.04502-5

The number of male medical students selecting Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) has declined in recent years. However, it is unclear whether patients prioritize a female provider. The aim of the study was to assess gender preferences amongst female patients regarding their OBGYN and other medical providers. A secondary aim was to evaluate qualities that are important to female patients regarding their OBGYN. This was a USA cross-sectional survey using an internet-based provider (SurveyMonkey®) in January 2019. A 19-item questionnaire was distributed to females aged 18-80. The survey queried demographics, gender preferences for medical providers and important qualities in selecting their OBGYN. A goal of 1000 responses was determined for the study. One thousand and fifteen women completed the entire survey. Sixty-six percent of respondents (N.=667) preferred a female OBGYN, while 8% (N.=87) preferred male, 25% (N.=261) no preference. The majority (51%) voiced no gender preference regarding other providers (N.=521). When asked to rank the 3 most important qualities in selecting their OBGYN, experience (57%), knowledge (51%), reputation (35%) and personality (34%) were most frequently chosen amongst the top 3. Gender was listed among the 3 important qualities by only 8% (N.=88). Women who identified as single, <45 years of age, and nulliparous had a higher likelihood of preferring a female OBGYN (P<0.003). Majority of women reported a female preference when selecting an OBGYN. However, when compared to other qualities, it is deemed less important. Male medical students considering OBGYN should be reassured by this information.