#SpeakUpOrtho: Narratives of Women in Orthopaedic Surgery—Invited Manuscript
Contributors:
Arianna L. Gianakos, DO
Mary K. Mulcahey, MD
Jennifer M. Weiss, MD
Julie B. Samora, MD, PhD
Nancy Yen Shipley, MD
Lisa K. Cannada, MD
Dawn M. LaPorte, MD
Source: JAAOS® Month 2021, Vol 00, No 00 © American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
ABSTRACT
Microaggressions, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and discrimination continue to be experienced by orthopaedic physicians in the workplace. Oftentimes, these behaviors go unreported because of fear of retaliation, and many perpetrators are not held accountable. This article provides examples of stories anonymously submitted to #SpeakUpOrtho on the topics of
microaggressions, bullying/harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation by orthopaedic surgery residents, fellows, and attending surgeons. Commentary by experts in the field is also included to provide ways to manage and prevent the perpetuation of these behaviors.
Discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, and harassment unfortunately still exist in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Recent literature demonstrates that these behaviors negatively affect physician well-being and productivity, placing those subjected to these behaviors at increased risk for burnout in their careers. These abusive behaviors often go unreported because of fear of retaliation or detriment to an individual’s career; therefore, many perpetrators are not held accountable.
“Orthopaedics is a homogeneous specialty, increasing the risk for these often unintended microaggressions.”
#SpeakUpOrtho was founded to raise awareness of the prevalence of abusive behaviors in the field of orthopedic surgery, particularly during training, which may dissuade women from pursuing a career in orthopaedic surgery. Stories from orthopaedic surgery residents, fellows, and attending physicians were anonymously submitted through an online portal to be shared on the various
#SpeakUpOrtho social media platforms so that individuals could make their voices heard in a safe environment. This narrative collection consists of selected accounts that have been submitted to #SpeakUpOrtho spanning the topics of microaggressions, bullying/harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. These topics are defined, followed by examples of experiences. Discussion is also provided to gain better insights into how to help prevent the perpetuation of these behaviors so that those who have experienced these behaviors may ultimately have the ability to safely report without fear of retaliation.
