2025 Volume 58 Issue 7 Pages 339-346
In anticipation of the implementation of the April 2024 work style reform for physicians, a survey was conducted from December 4, 2023, to January 31, 2024, targeting 6,601 dialysis specialists (4,969 men and 1,632 women) affiliated with the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy. The majority of female specialists were in their 40s. While both men and women expressed a strong desire to continue professional training, time constraints and institutional environments were cited as barriers. Although awareness of paternal involvement in childcare is increasing among male physicians, the childcare leave acquisition rate remains low at 6％, with most taking only a short leave, indicating ongoing challenges. Over half of the respondents answered “uncertain” or “impossible” regarding the impact of work style reform on gender equality； however, some expressed hope that more efficient working styles would enable better balance with childcare and personal time. In recent years, shortened working hours have been introduced primarily for female physicians raising children, and with the upcoming reform, both male and female physicians are entering a new era in which time outside clinical duties is being reconsidered. Effective promotion of gender equity in the dialysis field is expected to move forward.
