Sexism, gender pay gap, balancing a family and patients...women in the primary care community have likely dealt with it all. We want to help women in primary care thrive, and there is no better way to accomplish this than with the help of other women. That’s why we’ve asked 5 female clinicians—ranging from those who have been practicing 30+ years to those just starting out—to share advice for fellow women in medicine based on their experiences. Read their advice below.

Section 2 Title

Sexism, gender pay gap, balancing a family and patients...women in the primary care community have likely dealt with it all. We want to help women in our primary care community thrive, and there is no better way to accomplish this than with the help of other women. That’s why we’ve asked 5 female clinicians—ranging from those who have been practicing 30+ years to those just starting out—to share advice for fellow women clinicians based on their experiences. Read their advice below.

Hold Your Partner Accountable

We need to hold our spouses and partners accountable. This includes sharing domestic responsibilities. Tell your partner what you expect from them and what they need to do.
-Lee A. Lindquist, MD, MPH, MBA

Don't Apologize for Your Schedule

I used to block off time in my schedule to pick up my children from school, and not apologize for it. I think role-modeling family-work balance and integration can be extremely powerful.
-Diana McNeill, MD

Ask for What You Deserve

Women often assume that if they deserve something, it will be given to them. What we’re lacking in medicine is asking for what we deserve. We have to go to our bosses with a list of reasons why we deserve to be paid more and ask for it.
-Jenna McNeill, MD

GettyImages-1284636209.jpg

Dr. Moms: Lose the Guilt!

Don’t be afraid to seek help. Share what you are feeling and experiencing with your female colleagues – they are your biggest advocates and can offer advice, consolation, and wisdom. Cut yourself some slack, perfectionism be damned. And most importantly: lose the guilt
-Katherine E. Galluzzi, DO, CMD, FACOFP

GettyImages-1284636209.jpg

Make Your Ideas Heard

  • Use assertive body language skills no matter where you are in your career.
  • Write notes describing your points if it helps you with clarity.
  • Emit confidence and stand or sit up straight
  • Take a deep breath before you speak.
  • Look around the room as you speak.
  • Slow down to make a point.
  • Lean in, use an enthusiastic voice, and enjoy your contribution.
Finally, please do not apologize before you speak. Remember, you have a right to be respected in the way you want to be respected.
-Pamela Kushner, MD, FAAFP