Why is leadership so important in the Health Sector

The figure of the Manager in the Health System has formal authority, given by the confidence that his position represents, and the success of his management rests directly on the quality of his performance, decision making and the most solid actions of his leadership.

In health organizations, leadership consists in the process of directing, organizing, designing, optimizing, evaluating the activities of the members of an interdisciplinary group and influencing them to promote collaboration and concertation; In addition to facilitating communication and teamwork. The leader’s goal is to forge an action group committed to quality, willing to achieve the vision and objectives of the organization. The power of a leader lies in the ability to influence others, frequently shading beliefs, traditions, norms, experiences and values ​​of each organization. The leader must be visionary, and according to JP Kotter, “the visionary leader sets the future, leads people according to this vision and inspires them to make it happen, despite the obstacles.”

Leadership in the health sector must be oriented to produce the necessary changes. The leaders – given their brilliant performance and great energy – are a source of inspiration for their followers. The leader is the key factor in making the difference between success and failure and achieving optimization in the quality of health care.