AMA celebrates Women in Medicine in September

To celebrate the contributions of women physicians in the medical profession, the American Medical Association is marking September as Women in Medicine Month.

"It is important to highlight the influence that women have had in shaping the course of medicine," said Dr. Nancy H. Nielsen, Speaker of the AMA House of Delegates. "Women physicians have helped guide the direction of our nation's health policy, medical research and advocacy initiatives through their work with organized medicine."

Sponsored by the AMA's Women Physicians Congress, Women in Medicine Month provides an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of women physicians in their communities and promote women's health awareness. Women in Medicine Month also presents an environment in which female physicians can address important work and life balance issues such as maternity leave, part-time work and shared residencies. This year's theme, "Strength Through Diversity," is inspired by the growing number of minority women entering the profession. In 2001, more than 60 percent of female medical school applicants were from underrepresented minority groups.

In the past 20 years, the number of female physicians in the United States has nearly quadrupled. Women make up more than 25 percent of physicians and 40 percent of all residents and fellows. Medical school enrollment statistics suggest that the number of female physicians will continue to significantly increase over the next several years.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, approximately 48 percent of enrolled medical students are women.

"Women bring a unique perspective to the practice of medicine," said Dr. Rebecca J. Patchin, AMA trustee. "With the patient population becoming more diverse, it's encouraging that more and more women are pursuing medical degrees that can help meet their patients' growing health care needs."