Views of American Pediatric Surgeons on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Published in: Journal of pediatric surgery 2023-09, Vol.58 (9), p.1620-1624
• Main Authors: Vernamonti, Jack P., Bowen-Jallow, Kanika, Cockrell, Hannah, Morrison, Zach, Martin, Kathryn L., Reyes, Cynthia, Newman, Erika A., Huerta, Carlos T., Yu, Peter T., Garcia, Alejandro, Meckmongkol, Teerin T., Siddiqui, Sabina, Diaz-Miron, Jose, Van Der Heide, Dana M., Murphy, Jennifer M., Koo, Nathaniel, Ott, Katherine C., Syed, Aushja
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: APSA; Definitions of diversity; Diversity; Equity and inclusion; Physician views
• ISSN: 0022-3468; 1531-5037
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.04.016

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are concepts common in surgery. However, these can be difficult to define, and what constitutes DEI can be vague. Closing this knowledge gap, particularly within pediatric surgery, would be helpful to understand the views and needs of current surgeons. 1558 APSA members were sent an anonymous survey, of which 423 (27%) responded. Respondents were asked about their demographics, views on what constitutes diversity as well as questions on how DEI is handled within APSA and definitions of common DEI terms. Of 11 possible diversity measures, members agreed that a median of 9 (IQR 7–11) counted towards diversity. The most common being race and ethnicity (98%), gender (96%), sexual orientation (93%), religion (92%), age (91%), and disability (90%). On a 5-point Likert scale, the median response was 4 or greater on questions regarding how APSA handles issues related to DEI. However, members who identify as black were less likely to score in favor of APSA, and members identifying as women were more likely to rank higher importance of DEI initiatives. We also captured subjective responses on DEI terminology. Respondents had broad definitions of diversity. There is support for further DEI initiatives and how APSA handles DEI, however this perception differs based on identities. There is significant variability in beliefs and views regarding DEI definitions and understanding this is helpful for the organization moving forward. IV. Original Research.