From the Guidelines
The most important qualities of a good healthcare team leader include effective communication, emotional intelligence, clinical competence, integrity, and adaptability, as well as professionalism, which encompasses respect, empathy, and cultural awareness, as emphasized in the 2023 ACC/AHA/SCAI advanced training statement on interventional cardiology 1. A strong healthcare leader must communicate clearly and listen actively, ensuring that critical patient information is accurately conveyed among team members while creating an environment where staff feel comfortable voicing concerns. Emotional intelligence allows leaders to recognize team members' strengths and challenges, provide appropriate support during stressful situations, and manage conflicts constructively. Clinical competence establishes credibility and enables sound decision-making in complex medical scenarios. Integrity means consistently demonstrating honesty, accountability, and ethical behavior, which builds trust within the team and with patients. Adaptability is essential in healthcare's ever-changing landscape, requiring leaders to remain flexible when facing new protocols, technologies, or unexpected emergencies. Additionally, effective healthcare leaders must be decisive under pressure, empower team members through delegation and mentorship, and maintain a patient-centered focus that prioritizes quality care and safety. Some key aspects of professionalism in healthcare team leadership include:
- Demonstrating respect, consideration, and empathy for patients, families, and all members of the healthcare team 1
- Recognizing and reducing implicit and explicit biases in interpersonal relationships 1
- Practicing within the scope of personal expertise, training, and technical skills 1
- Recognizing the need for and obtaining consultations in a timely manner 1
- Staying up-to-date with current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, consensus statements, appropriate use criteria, and performance measures relevant to the scope of practice 1
- Identifying, disclosing, and managing relationships with industry and other entities to minimize bias and undue influence on clinical decision-making 1
- Demonstrating high ethical standards in personal and professional conduct 1 These qualities together create a foundation for cohesive teamwork, improved patient outcomes, and a positive workplace culture that reduces burnout and enhances retention. Other important principles for healthcare team leadership include assignment of specific clinical and coordination responsibilities based on the patient's best interest, recognition of the unique strengths and skills of each team member, and creation of a culture of trust, shared goals, and effective communication 1. Authentic leadership, which involves fully embracing the imperative of a healthy work environment and engaging others in its achievement, is also crucial in healthcare team leadership 1.
From the Research
Key Qualities of a Good Leader in a Healthcare Team
- Effective communication skills: The ability to communicate clearly and efficiently with team members, patients, and other healthcare professionals is crucial for a good leader in a healthcare team 2, 3, 4.
- Emotional intelligence: A good leader in a healthcare team should possess emotional intelligence, which enables them to understand and manage their own emotions and those of their team members, leading to better relationships and a more positive work environment 5.
- Ability to motivate and empower team members: A good leader should be able to motivate and empower their team members to work effectively and provide high-quality patient care 2, 3.
- Ability to advocate for patients: A good leader in a healthcare team should be able to advocate for patients and promote person-centred care 2.
Importance of Communication in Healthcare Leadership
- Communication is the basis of all interpersonal actions in healthcare teams 3.
- Optimal and efficient communication is necessary for providing high-quality patient care and meeting patient needs 3, 4.
- Non-verbal and written communication are often neglected but are essential skills for healthcare leaders to possess 2.
Developing Effective Leadership Skills
- Healthcare leaders can develop their communication skills through training and awareness 3, 4.
- Emotional intelligence can be developed through practical activities and self-awareness 5.
- Healthcare leaders should prioritize building effective relationships with their team members and patients to provide high-quality care 2, 5.
Note: The study 6 is not relevant to the topic of leadership qualities in a healthcare team.