Impassioned leadership effectiveness: an assessment of leadership styles of top leaders in Caribbean healthcare systems

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore effective leadership based on information collected from leaders in the healthcare delivery system within the Caribbean. It assesses leadership challenges and the ability to perform based on balancing limited resources.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used grounded theories as the basis for data gathering and formulating a strategy for thematic analysis. The researchers analyzed the data through identifying, synthesizing and evaluating codes. The sample comprised 20 senior officials from 7 ministries of health, 7 permanent secretaries and 6 chief medical officers across the 12 island states in the Caribbean region.FindingsThe findings are broken down into two main areas: first of these is the competency areas and the second part is the personal characteristics. The first part highlighted the Leader's ability to lead others or projects. The second part assessed the leaders' personality traits and distinguishing qualities that are embodied in the individual leaders.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is exploratory; given that this is the first time that such research has been done within the healthcare sector of the Caribbean region. Because of the chosen research approach, interviewees' comments within the paper may be biased based on their specific situation and exposure.Practical implicationsThe study highlights that there is a need for more training in leadership and other management competencies to assist in the decision-making process within the healthcare section of the public sector.Social implicationsThe study highlights that there is a need for better understanding of the inter-connectivity of the public service culture, global health governance and healthcare delivery. This paper provides a basis to help academics and practitioners think through leadership styles and strategies; plus, identify suitable best practices to lead more effectively in a social care field.Originality/valueThe study assesses the effectiveness of the leadership styles in the healthcare sector within the context of the Caribbean and it contributes by adapting and extending the literature on leadership in the study. Further, the paper contributes to the discourse on the demands on leadership for developing countries.