Women in Medicine Month, celebrated annually in September, honors the contributions of women in the medical field, including physicians, scientists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals
The observance highlights their achievements, roles in patient care, education, and leadership, and promotes gender equity, diversity, and inclusivity in healthcare. It also aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue medical careers. Despite their significant contributions to medical research and advancements in healthcare, women still face challenges like pay disparities and limited leadership representation. Women in Medicine Month serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and equality within the healthcare industry, advocating for equal opportunities for all talented professionals.
“Despite recent gains for women in medicine and science, the “gender gap” still exists. It is important to recognize these persistent inequities and to strive for a future where women in academic medicine will be afforded the same opportunities to achieve success both professionally and in their personal lives. As Division Chief, one of my main goals is to support and promote women junior faculty and trainees in their pursuit of meaningful career advancement while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.”
Christine Pham, MD
Chief, Division of Rheumatology
Local Events
- October 10, 2024 – ELAM on the Road: Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine, EPNEC
- October 25, 2024 – She Leads Symposium, Danforth Campus
Interested in getting involved at WashU Medicine
“Women in Medicine month is a great reminder that we should now and always strive to celebrate the achievements, accomplishments, and impact of women in medicine, advocate for equity in salary, representation, leadership, and promotion, and engage leadership, allies, and workforce to create inclusive workplaces where everyone feels heard, seen, and respected.”
Rakhee Bhayani, MD
Vice Chair for the Advancement of Women’s Careers
Additional Resources and Opportunities
- Free Membership to the Association for Women in Science (AWIS)
WashU has an institutional membership to AWIS, so WashU students, trainees, faculty and staff can register for free. Registration details. - Free Membership to Catalyst
Catalyst is a global nonprofit organization known for building environments that accelerate progress for women and underrepresented groups through workplace inclusion. This network provides members access to data-driven research, actionable tools and other learning resources. All WashU students, trainees, faculty, and staff have access to the full spectrum of Catalyst Supporter resources. Registration details. - Free Membership to the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD)
WashU is an institutional member. Founded by Dr. Kerry Ann Rockquemore, the organization provides research productivity, academic mentoring, and professional development resources to all faculty, graduate students, postdocs, and trainees. Free resources are available through the membership. Enroll and obtain your individual membership.
Suggested Reading
- Pioneering Women in the Department of Medicine – Profiles of pioneering women with DOM.
- WashU Women in Science – Past and current WashU women in medicine and science
- Women in Medicine: A Timeline of 15 Pioneers and Innovators
- Women in Medicine – Goodreads