Investigating Perspective Of Senior Faculty Members And Chief Residents About The Process Of Fostering Leadership Skill Among Trainees In Residency Program Of Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College During Period Spanning September To November Of 2023 GC

Abstract

Abstract Background: Leadership is a contested concept being considered as different things to different people. It is conceptualized differently according to the preoccupations of the time, sociopolitical system in which leadership is exercised and differences in cultural norms and values. Leadership theories have also evolved over time with development of newer leadership approaches which suit better into medical system (1, 2) Clinical leadership refers to the engagement and guiding role of physicians in health system improvement. It includes exercising leadership in professional medical care as well as leading the system (3). Health care systems today are very complex, operating best through constructive interconnections and interrelationships among many stakeholders. Hence, harnessing the leadership potential of health care professionals is a more effective method for creating new dynamics in the sector (4). Most of the proponents of physician leadership development advocate beginning leadership training as early as possible. Assessment and feedback regarding leadership competency of medical trainees must be provided throughout the education and training of health professionals (2, 5). Objective: To explore the process cultivating leadership competency among trainees in residency training program of Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College from the perspective of senior faculty members and Chief residents between September and November of 2023 GC. Method: Qualitative study design was used by gathering data through in-depth interview and focus-group discussion from senior faculty members and chief residents. The data is coded and categorized. Subsequently, it was inductively analyzed to identify the main thematic area raised during the discussion. Then the finding is discussed under the main themes of the study Result: The study has revealed that leadership is one of the core competencies listed in the national harmonized curriculum which is being implemented at SPHMMC program. And the process of its implementation is characterized by the presence of several practical exposures which can facilitate development of leadership skill among trainees. Leadership skill is also among parameters used to evaluate residents during the training. But the evaluation system lacks objective methods to assess development in leadership skills. Moreover, the program lacks clear plan and strategy regarding the process of fostering leadership of trainees. Furthermore, the program’s efficiency in fostering leadership competency of trainees is affected by various environmental factors. Factors like institutional culture, diversity and community enjoyment yield positive effect while others like the culture of medical education of the country and attitude gap among seniors and residents have negative repercussion. Overall, development of leadership skill among the trainees is dependent on an individual's motivation and effort. Conclusion: overall, the residency training program of SPHHMC has practical opportunities from the process of training as well as events hosted by the hospital. But it lacks providing theoretical knowledge. Moreover, the process is affected by multiple factors.