Impact of Workplace Microaggressions on Surgeon Career Status and Trajectory: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Background: Microaggressions in healthcare are associated with higher rates of part-time employment and early retirement, exacerbating the surgeon workforce shortage. However, the direct impact on surgeon career has not been investigated. Methods: This cross-sectional survey study evaluated career status and trajectory among American College of Surgeons (ACS) members who experienced workplace microaggressions. The survey was administered through the ACS Online Communities from November 2022 to January 2023. Primary outcomes were to characterize career impact and determine whether surgeons would choose a career in surgery again. Results: Of 377 ACS survey respondents, 249 (66.0%) experienced workplace microaggressions with 143 (of 249, 57.4%) taking action. When a supervisor was the perpetrator, career impact included microaggression escalation ( P < 0.001) and changing jobs with a demotion ( P = 0.025). Women surgeons who took action against microaggressions were less likely to report resolution of the microaggression than men surgeons (12.9% vs 39.1%, P = 0.005). Retaliation and no employer response were more common for women ( P = 0.047), younger surgeons ( P = 0.031) and those in specific surgical subspecialties ( P = 0.035). Surgeons who experienced microaggressions in 2 or 3 jobs (out of 2 or 3 jobs) (n = 122) were more likely to say they would not choose a career in surgery again ( P = 0.003). Conclusions: The professional role of the perpetrator directly impacted surgeon career trajectory, especially if the perpetrator was the supervisor. Addressing and mitigating workplace microaggressions could increase retention, and ensure access for patients who require surgical management.