Breaking Barriers: A Brief Overview of Diversity in Orthopedic Surgery

Diversity within the field of orthopedic surgery has been slow to progress, even well into the 21 century. Despite the barriers broken in 1932 by Ruth Jackson - the first female member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) - gender, racial and ethnic diversity continues to be lacking. Research has shown there are clear advantages of a diverse physician population, not only in medicine and patient care but in commercial industry as well. Although the representation of females and underrepresented minorities (URM) in orthopedics is increasing, it is doing so at a slower rate as compared to other surgical subspecialties. Targeted efforts have been made to investigate and promote gender and cultural diversity in orthopedic surgery. New programs and initiatives have been developed to promote diversity in orthopedics through mentorship and enhancing visibility of females and URM in the field.