Attainment of competency in management and leadership: No longer an optional extra for doctors

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of a research and consultation project being undertaken by the NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement and The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges to develop an integrated medical management and leadership competency framework. This will apply to all doctors in training at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and post‐registration.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review and consultation approach has been adopted. By interviewing appropriate stakeholders from medical professional, educational, service and regulatory bodies, a high level of awareness and engagement has been realised. This should pay dividends at the implementation phase.

Findings

Whilst some management and leadership is included within current curricula, it is highly variable both in terms of its coverage and relevance. At undergraduate level, it is often covered within professional development modules. At postgraduate level, some exciting initiatives are offered for some doctors but no integrated, systematic and coherent framework exists. Findings from the research are influencing the design and content of the emerging competency framework.

Research limitations/implications

The approach used has provided a good range of information however, neither an exhaustive set of views or a full literature review has been obtained.

Practical implications

Introduction of the Medical Leadership Competency Framework will have a significant impact on how doctors are trained. To be deemed an effective and safe doctor in the future, competence in both clinical and wider non‐clinical competences including management and leadership will be required.

Originality/value

This paper will raise awareness of this important initiative and offer a methodology for other clinical professional groups, nationally and internationally.

Citation

Clark, J. and Armit, K. (2008), "Attainment of competency in management and leadership: No longer an optional extra for doctors", Clinical Governance: An International Journal, Vol. 13 No. 1, pp. 35-42. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777270810850616