The FemInPEM conference, held in partnership with FemInEM, recently brought together allies and advocates of women in pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) to address the challenges and celebrate the achievements of women in this demanding field. Since its inception in 2019, FemInPEM, lead by Jennifer Reed, MD, MS, has aimed to provide a supportive community for women physicians facing persistent pay gaps, inconsistent family leave policies, and gender bias.

Despite the challenges of organizing a conference during a global pandemic, the first virtual FemInPEM conference launched in 2021, followed by inspiring in-person meetings. Over the years, the conference has welcomed more than 540 attendees, including 90 trainees, hosted 57 speakers, and offered 32 interactive workshop sessions. Speakers, chosen from a large pool of applicants, delivered personal Ted Talk-style presentations on topics often overlooked in medicine, such as resiliency after traumatic events, balancing parenthood with academic medicine, infertility in physicians, domestic abuse, and experiences with racism. The team also sponsored three medical students chosen from an applicant pool of over 35 students who not only participated in the planning and execution of the conference but also were given the opportunity to learn from and network with faculty.

 

Attendees have consistently praised the conference for its impact and inspiration. "This is hands down my absolute favorite conference to attend. The networking opportunities and the chance to learn more about other women in our field are invaluable," said Emily Roben, MD. Another attendee remarked, "This was absolutely the best conference I have attended in the last five years. It was so valuable and inspiring. What a phenomenal idea and so well executed."

From the outset, FemInPEM has strived to create a space where women physicians in pediatric emergency medicine can share their experiences, support one another, and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conference represents voices from the full spectrum of women in PEM, including faculty, fellows, and resident physicians from across the United States and beyond. As FemInPEM continues to grow, it remains a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for change, empowering women in pediatric emergency medicine to achieve their full potential.