Women physicians as healthcare leaders: a qualitative study
Journal of Health Organization and Management
ISSN: 1477-7266
Article publication date: 20 June 2016
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the under-representation of women physicians in clinical leadership by examining the issue from their perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors used large group engagement methods to explore the experiences and perceptions of women physicians. In order to capture common themes across this group as a whole, participants were selected using purposeful sampling. Data were analysed using a structured thematic analysis procedure.
Findings
This paper provides empirical insights into the influences affecting women physicians’ decision to participate in leadership. The authors found that they often exclude themselves because the costs of leadership outweigh the benefits. Potential barriers unique to healthcare include the undervaluing of leadership by physician peers and perceived lack of support by nursing.
Research limitations/implications
This study provides an in-depth examination of why women physicians are under-represented in clinical leadership from the perspective of those directly involved. Further studies are needed to confirm the generalizability of these findings and potential differences between demographic groups of physicians.
Practical implications
Healthcare organizations seeking to increase the participation of women physicians in leadership should focus on modifying the perceived costs of leadership and highlighting the potential benefits. Large group engagement methods can be an effective approach to engage physicians on specific issues and mobilize grass-roots support for change.
Originality/value
This exploratory study provides insights on the barriers and enablers to leadership specific to women physicians in the clinical setting. It provides a reference for healthcare organizations seeking to develop and diversify their leadership talent.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors gratefully acknowledge Lynn Davis for assistance in conceptualizing this study, the Ottawa Hospital Female Physicians Leadership Committee for support in conducting the study, Jack Kitts for organizational support, and Sonia Mullins-Forget and Ann Carisse for administrative support. There was no external research funding.
Citation
Roth, V.R., Theriault, A., Clement, C. and Worthington, J. (2016), "Women physicians as healthcare leaders: a qualitative study", Journal of Health Organization and Management, Vol. 30 No. 4, pp. 648-665. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHOM-09-2014-0164
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited