Farahat, F. (2007). Challenges Facing Female Physicians in Egypt. Journal of High Institute of Public Health, 37(2), 385-398. doi: 10.21608/jhiph.2007.22526
Fayssal M. Farahat. "Challenges Facing Female Physicians in Egypt". Journal of High Institute of Public Health, 37, 2, 2007, 385-398. doi: 10.21608/jhiph.2007.22526
Farahat, F. (2007). 'Challenges Facing Female Physicians in Egypt', Journal of High Institute of Public Health, 37(2), pp. 385-398. doi: 10.21608/jhiph.2007.22526
Farahat, F. Challenges Facing Female Physicians in Egypt. Journal of High Institute of Public Health, 2007; 37(2): 385-398. doi: 10.21608/jhiph.2007.22526
Department of Community Medicine and Environmental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
Abstract
Background: Female physicians allover the world have grown considerably and yet little is known about these women. Objectives: This study was conducted to explore challenges faced by Egyptian female physicians as they pursue their careers and different ways of coping with these challenges. Methods: Identification of challenges faced by the study participants was done through self administered questionnaire including both open and closed ended questions. It included relevant personal details, work characteristics, social circumstances, career development choices and opportunities, family life achievements, and barriers, and personal goals. Results: Total number of participants was 300 female physicians. Their mean age was 31.09 years. Most of them were married (76.7%), and 40% of the families were dual-doctor (both partners are physicians). Fifty-three percent of participants were clinicians, 22% academicians, and 25% house officers. Challenges reported by physicians were either work- or family-related. While overt discrimination was rare, many complained of subtle forms of bias. All participants reported that balancing work and family was more difficult than they ever expected. Participating physicians have dealt with challenges in different ways including: decision of small family size (82.3%), recruitment of babysitter/housekeeper (76.3%), and sharing in family income (62.0%). Conclusion: Physician training programs, workforce policy, and public expectations should recognize and adapt to the diverse and changing needs of physicians.
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