Analysis of Gender Distribution in Dental and Medical Specialties in Chile
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17533/udea.rfo.v38n1e362485Keywords:
specialities, dental, medicine, sex distribution, health personnelAbstract
Introduction: this study aimed to analyze gender distribution in medical and dental specialties in Chile and to assess structural segregation. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted using official centralized data. Eleven dental specialties and 26 primary medical specialties were included. Gender distribution was described using proportions, and segregation was assessed using Duncan’s dissimilarity index. Results: Duncan’s dissimilarity indices were 0.26 in dentistry and 0.29 in medicine, reflecting similar segregation. The most segregated feminized specialties were pediatric dentistry and pediatrics, while implantology and traumatology were the most masculinized. Conclusions: this study, the first to examine gender segregation in dental and medical specialties in Chile, reveal inequalities. The findings highlight the need for educational and workforce policies that promote more equitable and diverse career pathways for health personnel in Chile and Latin America.
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