Women in EP: From Representation to Safer Practice

Over lunch, the symposium “Women in EP” brought attention to the growing role of women in electrophysiology (EP), combining career perspectives with practical considerations surrounding women’s participation in the field. Moderated by Rubiana Sukardi, MD, PhD, and Dian Andina Munawar, MD, PhD, the session provided an open space for learning and discussion.

The symposium opened with Indah Sukmawati, MD, who presented “Women in Cardiology: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers.” She highlighted a striking disparity: although women are among those most affected by cardiovascular disease, they remain underrepresented among cardiovascular specialists. In Indonesia, women account for 34.5% of practicing cardiologists, but only 21% of interventional cardiologists and 12.1% of electrophysiologists. Beyond representation, the presentation emphasized the value of diversity in medicine, where different perspectives and experiences can foster innovation, strengthen decision-making, and contribute to better patient care and health equity.

The focus then shifted to occupational safety as Erika Maharani, MD, addressed “Radiation Exposure in EP: Special Considerations for Women.” She emphasized the ALARA principle, encouraging practical strategies to minimize radiation exposure, from using the lowest feasible dose and tight collimation to reducing fluoroscopic frame rates, avoiding unnecessary magnification, and utilizing non-fluoroscopic technologies such as 3D mapping and intracardiac echocardiography. She also highlighted the importance of reviewing and documenting radiation dose after procedures to monitor cumulative occupational exposure.

An interactive discussion brought the two perspectives together, linking the importance of greater representation with the practical realities of working in EP. Ultimately, “Women in EP” went beyond a discussion of career opportunities, highlighting how diversity, safety, and inclusion can collectively contribute to a stronger and more sustainable future for electrophysiology in Indonesia.