The leadership continuum: a framework for organizational and individual assessment relative to the advancement of women physicians and scientists.

Background: In the United States, women have attained near gender equity at the entry stages in academic medicine; however, progress has been much slower at senior leadership levels. The paucity of women leaders inhibits the ability of academic medicine to adequately meet the needs of an increasingly diverse body of students, faculty, staff, and patients. Research indicates that until a critical mass of women with sustained success as leaders is achieved, it is unlikely that this deficit will be corrected.

Methods: To promote the attainment of a critical mass of women leaders, the authors integrate two approaches to advancing women--the concept of a leadership continuum and a framework of practical approaches for moving toward gender equity at all ranks.

Results: An institutional guide is presented that can be used to promote dialogue about gender equity, noting areas of success and opportunities for additional improvement as well as an assessment of progress. A corresponding checklist has been developed that women faculty can use as a reflection guide for their career planning and to assess their position and progress along the leadership continuum.

Conclusions: Proactive, ongoing use of these frameworks can promote reflective dialogue and provide direction and accountability for institutions working to advance women into leadership positions.