BJS03 Exploring Effective Strategies in Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) in Surgery: A Scoping Review

Abstract Introduction and aim DEI is vital for improving patient care, reducing health disparities, and driving innovation. Despite these benefits and legislation like the 2010 Human Equality Act, women and minority groups remain underrepresented in surgery. Studies have extensively documented the causes including limited exposure, entrenched stereotypes, systemic biases, and lack of diverse role models. However, there is a notable gap in the literature exploring effective strategies to overcome these challenges. This review focuses on examining existing interventions to improve recruitment, retention, and promotion, emphasizing evaluating their measurable outcomes to advance DEI in surgery. Methods Using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a scoping review analysed effective DEI interventions in surgery. Of the 823 articles, 18 studies were included and critically appraised. Thematic synthesis identified patterns across interventions. Results Four overarching themes emerged:(1) Pipeline programmes—including scholarships and clerkships—fostering early exposure to surgical careers; (2) Recruitment strategies emphasizing holistic application reviews to overcome rigid academic cutoffs; (3) Mentorship initiatives extending from medical school into residency and early career stages; (4) Comprehensive institutional efforts, like forming diversity committees and faculty training on biases. Positive outcomes were observed across all categories, impacting both short-term recruitment and long-term retention and career advancement for underrepresented groups. Mentorship-driven approaches, holistic reviews, career-stage scholarships, and institutional accountability emerged as cost-effective and impactful measures. Conclusions This review underscores the importance of integrated DEI strategies in overcoming systemic barriers in surgery. By implementing evidence-based actionable interventions, stakeholders for surgical programmes can drive progress toward a more diverse and innovative surgical profession.