Understanding gender diversity and career progression in digital health

Do you work in Australia’s digital health sector? We want to hear about your experiences! Complete the ‘Understanding gender diversity in digital health survey’ here by Friday 3 December 2021.

Please note this survey has now closed.

Telstra Health, the Australasian Institute of Digital Health (AIDH), the Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre (DHCRC) and CSIRO’s Australian e-Health Research Centre have joined together to launch the first survey of its kind in understanding gender diversity in Australia’s digital health sector.

In its inaugural year, this survey sets out to understand the current state of gender diversity, career progression and equity within digital health, and to be reflective of all perspectives – both men and women who work in the sector.

There is a lack of research and data in understanding this issue, both in Australia and internationally. So, with the intention to run the survey annually, the first set of findings will set the benchmark for future iterations of the survey to build upon, as well as inform what actions are needed to create change and achieve progress for gender equity and career advancement in digital health.

“We know that women in STEM are significantly underrepresented, but when it comes to the digital health sector, there is lack of data and research to understand the issue in more detail. Based on anecdotal experiences, we know digital health is full of non-linear career pathways and people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, which is what makes it such a unique and exciting sector. But what does this mean when looking at gender diversity, equity and opportunities for career progression? This survey is critical to obtain the data we need to make informed decisions and create change, wherever change may be needed,” says Professor Mary Foley AM, Telstra Health Managing Director.

If you work in the digital health sector in Australia, we encourage you to take part in this anonymous survey – there are some added incentives including the chance to win 1 of 50 x $50 gift cards, or one of four complementary Digital Health Institute Summit tickets, or have the opportunity to claim a discounted AIDH membership.

The survey will take up to 15 minutes to complete and will close COB Friday 3 December 2021. The high-level results will be announced in February 2022, in conjunction with an event by the Brilliant Connected Women in Digital Health network, and with a view to publish an academic paper.

You can access the survey here.

If you have any questions or feedback, please email bcwdigitalhealth@health.telstra.com.

Co-authored by Telstra Health, Australasian Institute of Digital Health (AIDH), the Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre (DHCRC) and CSIRO’s Australian e-Health Research Centre.