Leadership development as part of quality improvement in district general hospitals.

Objective: Effective clinical leadership is crucial for the delivery of high-quality medical care. However, the extent to which current leadership development effectively enhances leadership competencies for junior doctors remains uncertain.

Methods: This study aimed to investigate the utilisation of quality improvement projects (QIPs) to enhance leadership skills among junior doctors in a District General Hospital. Additionally, the feasibility of implementing a leadership programme in a smaller District General Hospital alongside didactic learning, reflection and stakeholder engagement was assessed. The Medical Leadership Competency Framework Self-Evaluation Tool was used to assess current leadership qualities and develop personal action plans.

Results: While the majority of junior doctors completed QIPs, only a few engaged in reflective practice. Moreover, limited participation in formal leadership programmes was observed.

Conclusion: The study suggests that effective interpersonal development combined with long-term leadership training can be a resource-intensive yet valuable approach to adequately prepare future leaders even within District General Hospitals. The findings highlight the need for a structured leadership curricula utilising longitudinal project-based learning.