Background
The Digestive Center for Women Network (DCWN) is the brainchild of Dr. Robynne Chutkan, Assistant Professor of Gastroenterology at Georgetown University Hospital and Founder/Medical Director of the Digestive Center for Women, LLC, an integrative health practice that provides comprehensive management for women with gastrointestinal disorders.
DCWN is based on the principle of “female physicians for female patients” and comprised of leading female gastroenterologists from around the country. Our members come from prominent academic institutions, successful private practices, and a variety of research backgrounds. The common goal is a commitment to improving the care of women with digestive disorders.
The rationale for the establishment of DCWN is based, in part, on numerous studies that show that women prefer female physicians–particularly for endoscopic procedures. However, only about 10% of gastroenterologists are female, while 70% of GI patients are women (Figure).
Reference: Physician Specialty Data: A Chart Book. Association of American Medical Colleges. August, 2006.
We also know that many women delay care until a women physician is available. In one study, 87% of women were willing to wait over 30 days to have a female endoscopist perform a colonoscopy. (Menees SB, Inadomi JM, Korsnes S, Elta GH. Women patients’ preference for women physicians is a barrier to colon cancer screening. Gastrointest Endosc. 2005;62:219-223). Limited access to female gastroenterologists can have negative repercussions for women in terms of timely management of GI disorders.
Another motivating factor for the establishment of DCWN was highlighted in the Women’s Health Equity Act passes by Congress in 1990. This report emphasized the lack of research related to women’s issues in gastroenterology and other fields. Less research means fewer advances in the care provided to women.