Current State of Membership Diversity Among North American Radiology Societies: Analysis of Public Information on Society Websites

Rationale and Objectives: Diversity is an identified priority amongst governing medical bodies. We systematically analyzed public membership diversity data posted by North American radiology societies. Materials and Methods: Two independent study members reviewed North American radiology society websites to collect public data on membership diversity, specifically related to gender, race, and sexual orientation or gender identity, and categorized data using a coding system. Supplemental searches were conducted to confirm findings. Study team members created accounts on each society website to identify whether diversity data was collected during member enrollment. Results: We reviewed a total of 26 society websites, with median 1500 members (range 110-54,600). We categorized five societies as diversity leaders based on having diversity statement(s), diversity initiatives, and diversity publication(s). While 62%, 8%, and 0% of societies collected data on gender, race, and sexual orientation or gender identity, respectively, no societies posted membership composition of these groups. Fourty-six percent of societies had membership diversity statement(s) on their webpages. Fifty-four percent had initiative(s) targeted at diversity (23% had multiple). Fifty percent had membership diversity publication(s). Sexual orientation and gender identity minority members were least frequently specified as beneficiaries of diversity statements, initiatives, and publications. Societies with larger memberships were more likely to have membership diversity initiatives (p = 0.01), journal articles on membership diversity (p = 0.005), and be diversity leaders (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Public support of membership diversity by many North American radiology societies, especially those with fewer members, is lacking. Identified diversity leaders can serve as models for societies aiming to establish their commitment to diversity.

Automated summary

Many North American radiology societies support membership diversity, especially those with fewer members. Minority sexual orientation and gender identity groups receive less attention in diversity statements, initiatives, and publications. Societies with diversity statements and initiatives are more likely to have membership diversity initiatives and publications.