Workplace Mistreatment in U.S. Cardiology: A Comprehensive Analysis of Experiences and Implications.

BACKGROUND

Discrimination and harassment are common in cardiology but data on its impact are limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to identify the prevalence and impact of workplace mistreatment among U.S. cardiologists overall and when engaged in clinical and academic work.

METHODS

The American College of Cardiology conducted an online survey of 1,583 U.S. cardiologists in 2022. Demographics, types of mistreatment, professional experiences, and impact were self-reported. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine the predictors of "negative professional impact" defined as a composite of any of the following outcomes: being less productive, taking sick time, leaving a position, leaving cardiology, or leaving medicine.

RESULTS

Three-quarters of cardiologists experienced workplace mistreatment, including incivility (34%), discrimination (62%), emotional or physical harassment (32%), and sexual harassment (13%). Unfair treatment was reported by 54% working in any clinical setting, including issues related to professional advancement (31%), clinical work expectations (27%), and compensation (23%). Unfair treatment was reported by 58% during academic work. Consequently, 20% avoided training, employment, or promotion opportunities, 20% felt silenced, and 16% reported social avoidance; 11% considered leaving medicine. Predictors of negative professional impact included type of mistreatment (harassment [OR: 10.01; 95% CI: 5.25-19.10], discrimination [OR: 3.03; 95% CI: 1.56-5.80]), identification as homosexual (OR: 5.60; 95% CI: 1.87-16.78), and woman gender (OR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.19-2.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Three of 4 U.S. cardiologists report workplace mistreatment, including two-thirds reporting discrimination and/or harassment. Mistreatment negatively impacts professional lives, career trajectory, well-being, productivity, workforce retention, and ultimately impacts the delivery of patient care. These data highlight the need to improve the climate within cardiology.