34. UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF FORMAL LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR PEDIATRIC RESIDENTS IN DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE CARE TEAMS

Abstract

Background Physicians are expected to be leaders of multi-disciplinary teams without formal training. A recent Research and Development report found a direct relationship between teamwork behaviors and patient outcomes. Introducing leadership training early in residency can help to refine trainees’ strengths and build teams to support patient care. Objective: To examine the perceived benefit of leadership training for pediatric interns on teamwork and communication via formalized leadership and team building training. Methods Using Kolb's Theory of Experiential Learning, a 90-minute workshop, developed by a pediatric trainee, covered topics useful for teambuilding and understanding the intern role in patient care. A Myers Briggs Type Indicator test was administered to determine individual leadership styles. Cases, reviewed and edited by experienced educators, were discussed in faculty-led, small predetermined groups. Assessment was conducted via an anonymous survey to evaluate the perceived benefit of the training. Results 54/63 (85%) interns participated and completed the survey. The results showed the following: 89% identified their unique leadership style; 78% understood how leadership styles affects conflict resolution; 89% appreciated the importance of different leadership styles in a team based setting; 91% acknowledged the applicability to daily practice; 59% gained new skills to enhance communication in teams; 80% increased knowledge for decision-making in clinical practice. Conclusion Teamwork and leadership are an integral part of a safe, effective, and efficient health care system. The overall perceived benefit of introducing leadership training to pediatric interns shows significant promise for shaping tomorrow's leaders of patient care and health systems. Our workshop demonstrates identifying and understanding leadership/personality styles is important early in residency. Future studies should be conducted to further build on their strengths and call for help from team members with different styles/strengths in difficult situations.