Gender differences in Israeli physicians' career patterns, productivity and family structure

In the three principal Israeli medical practice settings, men and women physicians in internal and family medicine, cardiology, gastroenterology, geriatrics and general practice (no specialization) were compared on a number of career pattern, productivity and family structure variables. The results revealed gender differences in the functioning and status of men and women physicians similar to those found in other countries. Processes of 'sorting and tracking' of physicians by gender, level and area of specialization and country of medical studies appeared implicated in the concentration of women in 'generalist' specialties and primary care settings and of men in higher status specialties and hospital settings. The nature of professional activities in primary care and hospital settings differed, with research-related activities more common in the hospital setting. This appeared relevant to the higher status achieved by men physicians in the Israeli medical-professional hierarchy. Family roles appeared to affect men and women physicians differently. The findings are compared to those from other countries, and explanations in the Israeli context are proffered.