Leadership development to support quality improvement

This study examines the possible benefits of combining a standards-based quality improvement and accreditation programme with a skills-based leadership development programme. A mixed methods approach was used to explore how a small selection of key stakeholders from the local health system and technical partners experienced two existing programmes, which for the first time were combined. Thematic analysis was used to identify categories in the data from semi-structured interviews, which were grouped into six themes. Secondary statistical data was reviewed to assess whether there was any direct improvement in the compliance with the accreditation standards. All respondents identified that there were benefits in combining the programmes. The hospital respondents continued to use the managing and leading practices and improvement methods although the leadership input was not maintained. There was a strong correlation between the leadership and quality improvement although time did not allow for this to be demonstrated in the standard compliance scores. The study provides useful insight into the role of leadership and followership in quality improvement, that may be of use to others when implementing health and other related development programmes in low and middle-income countries. Areas for future research are identified. Keywords: Quality improvement, Health management, Leadership, Mixed methods, Low Middle-Income Countries, African Health Research.