Barriers and Motivators for Women in Surgical Training: A Qualitative Study From Malaysia.

Summary: Why are there so few female surgeons in Malaysia? A recent study interviewed 34 doctors—ranging from trainees to senior surgeons—to understand the gender gap. The findings reveal that a "boys' club" culture, inflexible work schedules, and the grueling demands of training act as major roadblocks for women. However, the study found a silver lining: women who succeed often rely on strong family support and dedicated mentors. To fix the imbalance, the study suggests hospitals must modernize their culture and create policies that support work-life balance for aspiring female surgeons.