Gender disparity in medicine: A call for equity

As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Canadian Women Physicians’ Day, we also recognize the gender disparities that still exist in medicine. A recent Canadian Healthcare Network article highlights the ongoing pay gap and systemic barriers that impact women physicians.

Research by Dr. Michelle Cohen and Dr. Tara Kiran shows that male family physicians earn 30 per cent more annually than female physicians, and male specialists earn 40 per cent more. These gaps persist even when adjusting for hours worked and specialty choice. Fee structures, referral patterns, and systemic bias continue to disadvantage women in medicine.

Change is happening. In British Columbia, the Longitudinal Family Physician Payment Model has created a more equitable pay structure, benefiting both women patients and women physicians. Other provinces are looking at similar reforms, recognizing the need for fair compensation and better support for women in medicine.

At BC Family Doctors, we advocate for policies that support equity, diversity and inclusion. Pay equity is central to our physician compensation work. Gender should never determine a physician’s earning potential or career opportunities.

We celebrate the women leading change in medicine and the progress to date. We also remain committed to building a more equitable healthcare system.