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Brian Mckinstry, a senior researcher at the University of Edinburgh, argues that the increasing number of female medical graduates is causing a ‘feminisation of primary care ' in the UK.

This could have a negative effect on general practice Mr Mckinstry says, pointing to research that shows women work fewer hours and contribute less to research, training and committee work.

But Jane Dacre, from University College London, argues that the feminisation of medicine should be welcomed as it will make it easier for women to get into the senior positions and specialities dominated by men. 

A BMJ editorial takes on the debate, saying that the higher work rate of male doctors is counter-acted by increased litigation and re-training costs.

Male doctors are more likely to indulge in impulsive, risky behaviour while female doctors have superior communication skills, it argues.

tom.ireland@haymarket.com

Brian Mckinstry's article

BMJ editorial

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