Survey results shed light on barriers faced by female ophthalmologists
In alignment with Global Diversity Awareness Month, Johnson & Johnson Vision has unveiled insights from their Women in Ophthalmology survey, illuminating the hurdles encountered by female ophthalmologists. The survey, which encompassed responses from over 100 female ophthalmologists, disclosed that 66% believe their professional journey in ophthalmology could be significantly enhanced with mentorship from female peers. Surprisingly, only 26% reported having received such mentorship.
Additional key findings from the survey encompass:
-56% of female ophthalmologists expressed an aspiration to mentor upcoming ophthalmologists as they progress in their careers.
-36% of respondents acknowledged the existence of a glass ceiling impeding their progression towards their career goals in ophthalmology.
Lori Tierney, President, Americas, Johnson & Johnson Vision, said, “Results from the Women in Ophthalmology Survey highlight the inequities disproportionately faced by women ophthalmologists today which is unacceptable. At Johnson & Johnson Vision we are deeply committed to making ophthalmology a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment and hope to ignite action to break down the barriers women face to ensure they can thrive in their quest to improve sight for patients.”
Further revelations from the survey will be deliberated upon during a panel discussion orchestrated by Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s Vision team at the American Academy of Ophthalmology 2023 Annual Conference on Saturday, November 4th, running from 3:00pm to 3:50pm PDT.
The panel, titled “Women Leaders in Ophthalmology: Breaking Barriers,” will explore the imperative need for augmented diversity, inclusivity, and belonging in the realm of women in ophthalmology. It will also emphasize the criticality of mentorship in this sphere. Industry leaders, including Lisa Nijm, MD, JD from Warrenville Eyecare and LASIK; Sonia Yoo, MD from University of Miami Health Center; and Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD from Baylor College of Medicine, will headline the panel.
More information can be found here.
