Parental Leave Policies in Orthopaedic Surgery: Are We Doing Enough?

Orthopaedic surgery is a demanding field. It requires long hours and intense focus. But what happens when residents become parents? The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has set a standard. They require at least six weeks of paid leave for residents and fellows. This leave covers medical, parental, or caregiver needs. The question is, are orthopaedic surgery programs following this rule? A study aimed to find out. It looked at the websites of orthopaedic surgery residency programs. The goal was to see if they clearly stated their parental or adoption leave policies. The findings were concerning. Many programs did not have this information readily available. This lack of transparency can have real consequences. It might discourage female medical students from choosing orthopaedic surgery. They may worry about balancing career and family.Why is this important? Well, having clear policies can make a big difference. It shows that programs support their residents' personal lives. It also helps residents plan ahead. They can know what to expect if they become parents. This is not just about fairness. It's about creating a supportive environment. One where residents can thrive both professionally and personally. But there's more to it. The study highlights a broader issue. It shows that some programs may not be fully complying with ACGME standards. This is a problem. It's not just about the rules. It's about the well-being of residents. They are the future of the field. They deserve support and clarity. So, what can be done? Programs should make sure their leave policies are clear and accessible. They should also ensure they meet or exceed ACGME standards. This is not just good practice. It's essential for attracting and retaining top talent. Especially among female medical students. They need to see that orthopaedic surgery is a field that values work-life balance.