Work

The Relationship Between Market Forces and Gender Differences in Physician Pay

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Using state variation in HMO enrollments, I study the impact of market competition on the physician gender gap. Census data show that a one-percentage point increase in HMO market share improves the relative earnings of female physicians by 1.6 %, reducing the gap by 20 % between 1979 and 1999. After HMOs declined, the gap widened significantly. No such relationship was found for placebo groups such as college graduates, advanced degree holders, or lawyers. Young Physicians Survey data reveals that HMOs increased the demand for female specialties and practice settings and reduced economic rents disproportionately captured by men.

Source: The B E Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy

DOI: 10.1515/bejeap-2025-0087

Author: Alicia Sasser Modestino

Institution: Northeastern University

Language: English

Topic: Diversity and Career in Medicine

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,712