The ASELPH Leadership Fellowship enhancing the performance of healthcare leaders in South Africa

Abstract

Abstract Background South African healthcare leaders face significant challenges and concerns are raised regarding the competencies of leaders to deal with such challenges. The Albertina Sisulu Executive Leadership Programme in Health (ASELPH) Fellowship was established to equip leaders with skills to perform optimally. The study evaluated the effect of ASELPH in enhancing the performance of leaders. The study proved the benefits of leadership training, established the factors affecting training effectiveness and the contribution of the Fellowship's unique features to training's success. It also contributed to the scant global literature on whether such programmes are effective. Methods A quasi-experimental study design was used, with pre-post assessments of ASELPH students at the University of Pretoria. Data were collected from a questionnaire, module assessments and reflective essays. A 360° assessment of 14 competencies and 56 performance indicators were done. Results Students improved significantly in 11 competencies and 44 performance indicators, in spite of adverse workplaces. Assessors observed the same improvements, which confirmed performance change at the students' workplaces. Factors influencing the effectiveness were poor leadership, increased workload, time and resource constraints. The unique features of the ASELPH i.e. case-based method, eLearning, group work, real-time assignments, continuous assessments and mentoring contributed to the success of the training. Conclusions The study showed how ASELPH enhanced the performance of public healthcare leaders in SA and their impact on the SA healthcare system. Recommendations include the continuous use of blended learning for training and all SA healthcare leaders to attend ASELPH. The findings of this study combined with the evidence in the literature showed that leadership training, together with ongoing assessment post-training, are necessary for leaders to perform effectively in their workplaces. Key messages Leadership training is imperative for optimal performance of leaders. The teaching approaches and pedagogy affect the effectiveness of the training.