Abstract:
Background
Healthcare institutions strive for better healthcare systems with clinical leaders to provide excellent patient care. However, there is
paucity in the literature on what strategic leader attributes should clinical leaders have to perform clinical and leadership functions
in an HIV health system.
Methods
We explored healthcare providers' perceptions regarding the strategic leader attributes of clinical leaders in AMPATH-Moi Teaching
and Referral Hospital in Eldoret Kenya. We conducted (n = 22) in-depth interviews with healthcare providers including clinical
o¨cers, nurses, social workers, counselors, retention o¨cers, and, pharmacists who were purposively sampled from the AMPATHMTRH HIV facility between September 2019 to May 2020. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach.
Results
The ¦ndings identi¦ed 4 domains of strategic clinical leader attributes. Training and expertise: clinical competence, informed, and
knowledgeable. Personality traits: team leader, trustworthy, honest and integrity, §exible and swift, impartial and mentor.
Interpersonal skills: approachable, good listener and understanding, good communication skills, good relationship, interaction,
and respect. Managerial traits: good planner, accountable, disciplined, dedicated and hardworking, innovative, problem-solver,
organized, and vocal.
Conclusion
Clinical leaders require strategic leader attributes to lead HIV health systems, manage patient dynamics and provide excellent HIV
care. The leadership and management of the HIV facility should develop the capacities of the clinical leaders to a more strategic
leadership approach so that they become dynamic and responsive in their leadership and clinical roles.
