Leadership and Academic Medicine: Preparing Medical Students and Residents to Be Effective Leaders for the 21st Century

Abstract

Introduction Physician leadership positions have evolved from autonomous roles in clinical medicine to those of leaders in interdisciplinary teams managing population-based care in a value-based care-delivery system, to C-suite administrative roles in hospitals and other health care systems. Unfortunately, many practicing physicians are ill prepared to take on these new roles. Methods In response to the evolution of the role of the physician leader in the 21st century, an educational workshop consisting of didactics and interactive case discussion was developed to introduce medical students and residents to the concepts and practices of physician leadership. During the workshop, trainees were: (1) introduced to leadership terms and theories, (2) provided examples of leadership opportunities during medical training and upon entering medical practice, and (3) given instruction and resources on how to become more effective leaders. Results Results of a paired-sample t test of learner responses (pre- and postworkshop) showed a statistically significant increase in participants' perception that a career in academic medicine would allow them to serve in a leadership role at their medical school or community of interest. Over 90% of participants agreed that the workshop gave them a greater appreciation of leadership terms and theories, leadership opportunities, and ways to become a more effective leader. Discussion Participants gained specific knowledge regarding leadership styles and the scope of leadership roles available to physicians. They also recognized their lack of knowledge regarding physician leadership roles and opportunities, and expressed their interest in pursuing leadership opportunities in their current educational programs.

Keywords

• Leadership
• Academic Medicine