ITASCA, IL--Women make up 65% of practicing pediatricians and 70% of graduating pediatric residents, but, as was detailed in a 2021 systematic review, are still paid less than their male counterparts, are less likely to earn annual incentive bonuses, and earn less when they do receive bonuses. The American Academy of Pediatrics, in a new policy statement, “Gender Pay Equity in Pediatrics,” highlights that while gender pay disparities happen across medicine, the issue is particularly significant in pediatrics and pediatric subspecialities and may exacerbate current pediatric workforce shortages.
The statement, published in the June 2026 Pediatrics (published online on May 26), calls on all organizations employing pediatric health professionals to eliminate gender-based inequities in pay, advancement, and leadership through transparent compensation practices, regular equity analyses, and bias-reducing policies.
Beyond pay, women in pediatrics are also more likely to face barriers to mentorship, sponsorship, leadership roles, and career advancement. Professional differences by gender are also fueled by inadequate parental leave and inflexible workplace policies. Evidence shows that disparities in gender pay remain even when taking into account factors such as research productivity, hours worked, percentage of time spent performing procedures, specialty, age, and years in practice.
The policy statement cites the implications of this pay disparity, including a chilling effect on the field of pediatrics to adequately train, recruit, and retain a diverse and thriving workforce that can meet the needs of different kinds of families.
The AAP urges fair payment structures and strict compliance with anti-discrimination laws to foster inclusive, equitable medical workplaces. The AAP Committee on Pediatric Workforce, Council on Health Equity, and Female Leadership and Excellence in Pediatric Subspecialities wrote the policy statement, which reflects the latest evidence in the field, and which went through several rounds of peer review before being approved by the AAP Board of Directors and published in Pediatrics.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.