Are Women Better Surgeons Than Men?

Surgery used to be an exclusively male sport. However, more women than men are currently entering medical school, and the proportion of female surgeons is steadily increasing. A previous study found that female and male physicians approach patients differently. Evidence has suggested that female surgeons are more likely to use patient-centered decision-making, more willing to collaborate, and more carefully select patients for surgery. These differences might translate into different outcomes for female and male surgeons. Studying such differences can give important insights into how to avoid adverse outcomes.