Assessment of medical leadership competencies and development needs: First comprehensive study from India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess medical leadership competencies of physicians in India, to analyse the competency gaps, and suggest measures for medical leadership development. Methods: A survey questionnaire was developed to assess 30 medical leadership competencies at ‘Self-assessed proficiency’ levels (1 very poor to 5 very good), ‘Perceived importance of competency’ levels (1 not important to 5 very important) amongst physicians and perceived need for medical leadership development programmes (MLDPs) to which 540 doctors responded (54%). Findings: Majority (70%) self-assessed their competencies between ‘Average to Good’. Self-assessed competency levels fell significantly short of the perceived importance of each of the competencies across all demographic variables. Thus, the study demonstrated existence of significant ‘Medical leadership competency gap’. The competencies, which were consistently deficient were in the NHS-MLCF domains of Setting directions, Working with others, and Managing services, with the lowest rated competency being ‘Knowledge of HR, procurement, financial and contracts management’. The variables, which were observed to have significant influence on competency levels included: Formal management training, Speciality and Duration of management/leadership experience. Majority (94.8%) of physicians indicated need for MLDPs at all levels. Conclusions: This is the first study from India highlights leadership competency gaps amongst physicians and confirms need for MLDPs.