Women Doctors and Clinical Leadership

The NHS needs the leadership talents of more women doctors.

Why another report? This new report is written to celebrate the talent, dedication and experience of women doctors and strengthens the case for female medical leadership by using qualitative interviews with senior doctors coupled with a robust research base.

Who is it for? The report is written for both organisations and women doctors themselves with quotes, stories and advice for those wanting to play a greater role.

Whats the problem now? Women doctors have made up the majority of entrants to medical school since the early 1990s, yet only a small minority achieve senior leadership positions on NHS boards or equivalent. This under representation is now being mirrored on emerging Clinical Commissioning Groups where 15% of GP leaders are female, while at the same time in the private sector Corporate boards are required to achieve 25% female representation. 

Why does it matter? Using research, interviews and individual stories the report describes how increasing female representation will ensure use of talent and increase capacity, create powerful role models, reflect the needs of female patients and help ensure compliance with the Equality Act.  
Women bring a different leadership style based on communication, inclusion, relationships and emotional intelligence similar to the “no more heroes” approach required to lead complex organisations. It is recognised that gender diverse boards have improved financial and organisational performance.  Taking on a leadership role can be a fulfilling career option and opportunity to make a difference for patients.

So what’s holding them back? Numerous complex barriers impede female medical career progression and include

• Role conflict and ‘structural’ barriers, including the triple burden of domestic, clinical and leadership responsibilities; part-time work; the sessional GP contract; and lack of role models.
• Individual and organisational ‘mindsets’ such as the perception of a traditional male environment and “boys club” as well as low personal aspiration and levels of confidence

What can be done? Overcoming these hurdles will require “fixing” society, organisations and women themselves; while this may not be achievable at a societal level, some issues are within the control of the NHS, such as improved development opportunities and fair appointment processes.  

How can I get involved? Dr Penny Newman author of the report will now be working with the National Leadership Academy implementing the recommendations. If you 

• are interested in the creation of a career and development network for women Drs (see page 26 of the document, downloadable using the link below)
• would like to play a role in supporting this agenda nationally or locally
• feel ready for a board level or equivalent position as a female doctor in a Trust or CCG
• Contact Penny Newman
• We are also interested in hearing your views on what’s needed to help you in your role. This survey will close at the end of May and we will forward a copy of the report to you if you complete your email address inthe link. Take part in our survey
• Read about the Women Doctors and Clinical Leadership Launch Event

Click here to download the report in PDF format

View the video of Sheryl Sandberg's talk "Why we have too few women leaders" on the TED website