FACTORS INFLUENCING WOMEN’S ATTRACTION TOWARDS CAREER IN DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY: INSIGHTS FROM A SURVEY OF ASPIRING RADIOLOGISTS IN DISTRICT PESHAWAR, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Amara Haroon; Ghazala Wahid; Rabeea Ihtesham; Shaista Zubair; Uzma Badshah; Sahar Fahim

doi:10.46903/gjms/23.2.1852

FACTORS INFLUENCING WOMEN’S ATTRACTION TOWARDS CAREER IN DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY: INSIGHTS FROM A SURVEY OF ASPIRING RADIOLOGISTS IN DISTRICT PESHAWAR, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Amara Haroon, Ghazala Wahid, Rabeea Ihtesham, Shaista Zubair, Uzma Badshah, Sahar Fahim

Abstract

Background: Historically, the representation of women in diagnostic radiology has been lower than that of men, reflective of broader gender disparities in many STEM fields. The main purpose of the study was to identify the key elements that motivate female residents to choose a career in diagnostic radiology.

Materials & Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted for data collection over six months from January 2024 to June 2024 on 97 doctors pursuing a career in diagnostic radiology in tertiary care hospitals across Peshawar KP. All the participants were assessed for the factors influencing their choices towards radiology with structured questionnaire, specially designed for it. The survey comprised 12 questions designed to probe some aspects of career choice in diagnostic radiology. Questions are a blend of multiple-choice, Likert scale, and open-ended inquiries.

Results: Ninety-seven postgraduate female residents in radiology were assessed for the factors influencing their choices towards radiology with structured questionnaire, specially designed for it. The survey indicated that most people did not consider their marital status as a factor in career choice. A large majority thought the possibility of working with a better pay scale was essential. Work timings were relevant to the majority, suggesting an attraction to available and fit-to-schedule possibilities in diagnostic radiology. The perception of job security in diagnostic radiology is high, with most respondents opining that it offers better job security compared to other medical specialties. Work-life balance was well perceived, and family-friendliness showed its effect on career decisions. Some respondents reported a gender-related challenge, which gave cause for continuing the efforts to improve issues of diversity and gender equality in the profession.

Conclusion: The main factors that influence women to enter diagnostic radiology need to be understood for a practical approach toward a more balanced and inclusive workforce in healthcare. Women value flexibility, financial incentives, and job security at work more than marital status when it comes to this specialty. Eliminating struggles and biases would help pave the path towards a brighter future for these women by providing them equal opportunities in diagnostic radiology.

Keywords

Career choice; Radiology; Work-Life Balance.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46903/gjms/23.2.1852