Ethnic and social diversity among hospital pharmacy residents in the Netherlands and its importance in resident selection

BACKGROUND: Ethnic and social diversity in contemporary societies is not adequately reflected among medical residents and medical specialists, and this disparity may also exist within hospital pharmacy. Although at least 35% of pharmacy students have a Turkish, African, Latin American or Asian (TALA) background, it remains unclear whether this extends to hospital pharmacy residents. This study examined the diversity among hospital pharmacy residents in the Netherlands, in terms of gender, age, ethnic background and social background. In addition, the extent to which diversity is considered in selection procedures was explored. METHODS: A quantitative cross-sectional national study was conducted using questionnaires delivered to hospital pharmacy residents, who started their residency between 2018 and 2023, and their supervisors in the Netherlands. Residents reported their gender, age, ethnic and social background. Ethnic background of residents was compared with that of young adults (aged 20-30 years) in the general population and pharmacy students. Supervisors indicated whether diversity, considering gender, ethnic background and their combination with previous experience and interests, was considered during selection and rated importance hereof (scale 1 "unimportant" to 5 "very important"). RESULTS: In total, 131 of 169 (78%) invited residents and 32 of 37 (87%) supervisors were included. Among residents 30% were male and 18% had a Turkish, African, Latin American or Asian (TALA) background, compared to 20% of young adults in the general population and 35% of students. Compared to other residents, TALA residents were less likely to have a parent with at least a bachelor's degree (44% versus 76%, p=0.004) or a parent registered as healthcare professional (4% versus 26%, p=0.043). Most supervisors reported considering gender balance (73%), ethnic diversity (69%), and the combined diversity factors (90%) during selection. Gender and ethnic diversity were rated fairly important (median 3); while the combined diversity factors were rated as important (median 4). CONCLUSIONS: The ethnic diversity of hospital pharmacy residents in the Netherlands is comparable to that of young adults in the general population but appears to decline in the transition from student to resident. Future research should focus on this transition, including career choices and the residency selection procedures.