Population health stories

Oct 30, 2026

Female physicians linked to lower patient death and readmission rates, ICES study finds

A new ICES study led by University of Toronto researchers found that hospital patients treated by female physicians had lower mortality and readmission rates compared to those cared for by male physicians. The research, led by Dr. Angela Jerath, aims to improve patient outcomes by understanding differences in physician practice patterns.

Oct 30, 20263 sources

Top claims

▪Dr. Angela Jerath noted that female physicians face persistent career earnings gaps compared to male counterparts even when accounting for hours worked, patients seen, and surgical procedures performed.
▪Dr. Angela Jerath noted that past research on physician sex and patient outcomes focused largely on surgical patients and admitting physicians only.
▪ICES study lead author Dr. Angela Jerath noted that female physicians may achieve better outcomes by engaging in patient-centred communication, spending more time, consulting colleagues, sharing decision-making, and ordering treatments following established clinical guidelines.

Subtopics

Clinical guidelines1 Healthcare providers1 Medical research1 Observational research1 Patient safety1

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