2021 Annual Meeting Startup & Practice Management Access Pass-The Role of Mentoring in the Professional Development of Sports Medicine Surgeons or The Art of Mentoring

The Role of Mentoring in the Professional Development of Sports Medicine Surgeons or The Art of Mentoring

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Andrea emphasizes the critical roles of mentorship and advocacy in advancing careers, especially for women and underrepresented minorities in orthopedic surgery. While mentorship focuses on guidance, emotional support, and career development, advocacy—or sponsorship—involves senior leaders actively promoting protégés by creating opportunities and enhancing visibility. Given the low percentage of women (about 6%) and minorities in orthopedics, there is a pressing need for more sponsors who typically resemble the established leadership, which is predominantly male and Caucasian. Dr. Andrea calls for men and those in power to intentionally sponsor diverse talent by providing stretch assignments, recognition, and connections. She underscores that improving diversity requires active sponsorship, not just mentorship. By adopting inclusive sponsorship practices, the orthopedic field can foster leadership diversity and professional growth, benefiting both the organizations and patient care. She concludes by urging emerging leaders to embrace inclusive sponsorship to ensure a thriving, diverse specialty.

Asset Caption

Dr. Tamara Scerpella

Keywords

mentorship

advocacy

diversity in orthopedics

women in surgery

inclusive sponsorship