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Strategies for Attracting Women and Underrepresented Minorities in Urology

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article summarizes the current state of underrepresented minorities (URM) and women within urology. Specific strategies to promote the recruitment and retention of URM and women within urology are discussed.

Recent Findings

Minorities and women remain underrepresented within urology, a disparity that has roots as early as medical school and persists throughout residency and practice. This is likely due to implicit and explicit bias, lack of role models, and persistent disparities in compensation and promotion. Strategies to improve recruitment and retention of these individuals should focus on increasing early exposure to urology, opportunities for mentorship, and support in professional development. Creation of a supportive institutional culture, consideration of alternative career advancement paths, and intentional diversity-focused recruitment efforts are also critical.

Summary

Successful recruitment and retention of URM and women in urology requires specific, directed efforts to increase opportunities for exposure, mentorship, and career promotion at a programmatic, institutional, and national level.

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Abbreviations

URM:

Underrepresented minority

AUA:

American Urological Association

SWIU:

Society of Women in Urology

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St, HSB BB 1121, Seattle, WA, USA

    Jessica C. Dai

  2. Department of Urology, University of California, 1001 Potrero Ave., Bldg 5, Room 3A16, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA

    Nnenaya Agochukwu-Mmonu

  3. Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, 789 Howard Avenue, Fitkin 3, Urology, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA

    Adam B. Hittelman

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  1. Jessica C. Dai
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Correspondence to Jessica C. Dai.

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Jessica C. Dai, Nnenaya Agochukwu-Mmonu, and Adam B. Hittelman each declare no potential conflicts of interest.

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Dai, J.C., Agochukwu-Mmonu, N. & Hittelman, A.B. Strategies for Attracting Women and Underrepresented Minorities in Urology. Curr Urol Rep 20, 61 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-019-0921-5

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