Abstract

VARGAS-ACEVEDO, Catalina. Women in Medicine: The Normalization of a Hidden Discrimination. Univ. Med. [online]. 2021, vol.62, n.4, pp.201-205.  Epub Sep 30, 2021. ISSN 0041-9095.  https://doi.org/10.11144/javeriana.umed62-4.muje.

For women in medicine, as well as in many other areas, despite greater representation by historically excluded genders, there is a persistent discrimination towards women, one that has been normalized. There is a gender gap that is still present as we evaluate the presence of women in senior positions within the hospitals and the academic network, as well as the persistent salary gap between women and men in medicine. Therefore, there is still a discrimination that lies below the surface and has been founded upon a variety of social constructs and stereotypes that create a gender bias. Every single word, phrase and argument hidden within this normalization create a structural and systematic barrier towards the role of women in medicine, as well as their professional and academic development free of prejudice. This gender bias does not only affect the work environment or discriminate only against women physicians, but it can also affect patient care and health outcomes. It is necessary to embark a discursive awareness and recognize the persistent bias in search of a true gender equality in medicine, from medical schools to the hospitals.

Keywords : gender; gender equality; gender and health; gender stereotype; gender identity.

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