Assessing Healthcare Leadership Competencies in Crisis Management

Abstract

Introduction: This study focused on assessing the necessary healthcare leadership competencies for effective crisis management. The COVID-19 pandemic was a significant reminder of the importance of effective leadership positions for the healthcare system in crises like these. Therefore, it was necessary to identify the main competencies that healthcare leaders should have in order to manage and overcome such hard situations.
Methods: A qualitative research approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were held with leaders of health systems with relevant crisis management experience. Transcriptions of the interviews were generated, and thematic analysis was used to identify key competencies, as per the description shared in the original study.
Results: The analysis yielded four main competencies: managerial skills, change management, emotional intelligence, and alignment. Other competencies include strategic thinking, adaptive management systems, communication, and emotional intelligence. It also concluded that collaboration and making difficult decisions were essential competencies for healthcare leaders in a crisis.
Conclusions:  This study indicates the specific competencies that healthcare leaders need to manage crises effectively. The findings can guide the design of  effective leadership training programs in crisis management within the healthcare sector. Not only do such competencies enable health systems to act on healthcare driven in crisis, but they are also crucial in preparing healthcare organizations for future crises.