The importance of equal treatment: Medical students’opinions on affirmative action, equal treatment and discrimination

Abstract

We assessed medical students’ opinion of affirmative action programs (AAPs), perception of gender equality and discrimination. 276 medical students (56.2% female) participated. Women considered AAPs to be more important than did men. Most women (62.6%) and men (71.9%) received equal treatment, but significantly more women (22.6%) than men (11.6%) experienced discrimination. It is necessary to convey the importance of gender equality and equal treatment, including discrimination and mistreatment. Thus, we have to raise awareness for gender equality and equal treatment not only in staff, in students or in health care but also among each other.

Acknowledgments

This research was conducted without grants or financial support. This article is based on a student diploma thesis. The study used for the diploma thesis has not been presented at any conference or social media.