Aim. To investigate the role of women general practitioners (GPs) in New Ze
aland.
Method. A five-page questionnaire was posted to 200 randomly selected women
GPs from throughout New Zealand. One follow-up mailing was sent.
Results. A response rate of 79% was achieved. Twenty-four percent of women
GPs work less than 5/10 but 46% earn less than $40 000. Forty-eight percent
of women GPs' partners also earn less than $40 000. The most common reason
for working part-time was parenting responsibilities. Eighty-seven percent
are married or live with a partner, 77% have children, 48% have preschool-
aged children. Only 15% have Membership of the RNZCGP and 57% are owner or
partner in their practice.
Conclusion. Women GPs suffer both professional and financial difficulties b
ecause of their dual motherhood/professional roles.