Authors: Gisselbaek M et al.
Anesthesiology 144(4):1008–1011, April 2026
Summary:
This cross-sectional mixed-methods study examines mentorship dynamics in anesthesiology, with a particular focus on gender differences. Using a national survey of over 1,100 members of the American Society of Anesthesiologists along with focus groups, the authors explored how mentorship is accessed, structured, and experienced.
The study confirms that mentorship is widely valued, with clear benefits for both mentees and mentors—including career advancement, improved confidence, and psychosocial support. However, significant disparities exist. Women mentees were more likely to prioritize gender, race, and psychological support when selecting mentors and reported greater difficulty finding mentorship. In contrast, men were more likely to report no barriers.
Among mentors, women also reported more challenges, particularly time constraints, and placed greater emphasis on identity factors when selecting mentees. Men tended to prioritize experience and reputation. These patterns suggest that mentorship in anesthesiology is influenced by identity-based alignment, which may unintentionally reinforce inequities.
Qualitative findings reinforced these disparities and highlighted structural issues. Participants described anesthesiology as an isolating specialty, making mentorship especially important for professional development and emotional support. There was strong support for formal, structured mentorship programs—particularly those that promote diversity and representation—rather than relying on informal or volunteer-based systems.
The study also identified key barriers, including lack of institutional support, time limitations, geographic constraints, and difficulty finding mentors with shared identity or experiences. Notably, mentorship was described as a bidirectional relationship, with benefits extending to mentors as well.
Overall, the study highlights that while mentorship is highly valued in anesthesiology, access and experience are not equitable, and structured, inclusive programs are needed to address these gaps.
Key Points:
- Mentorship improves career development, satisfaction, and well-being
- Women report greater barriers to accessing mentorship than men
- Identity factors (gender, race) play a significant role in mentor selection
- Anesthesiology’s isolated work environment increases the importance of mentorship
- Structured, institution-supported programs are preferred over informal systems
- Mentorship is a two-way relationship benefiting both mentors and mentees
What You Should Know:
Mentorship isn’t just helpful in anesthesia—it’s essential. But access isn’t equal. If programs rely on informal systems, disparities will persist. The fix isn’t more mentorship—it’s better, structured, and more inclusive mentorship.
We would like to thank Anesthesiology for allowing us to summarize and share this article.