The new health care paradigm: roles and competencies of leaders in the service line management approach.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss the need for the service line management approach in health care. Service line management is increasingly utilized by US health care organizations as an innovative method for providing the needed stimulus to increase viability and profitability for the ailing health care sector.

Design/methodology/approach: Using current literature, this study describes a paradigm shift from traditional health care management approaches to focus on the importance of a service line management approach with its specific emphasis on competencies of leaders.

Research limitations/implications: Four essential competencies--conceptual, participation, interpersonal, and leadership--must be gained by leaders to bring about organizational growth.

Practical implications: Health care managers must understand and practice these four key competencies to become effective health care leaders.

Originality/value: This paper provides useful information on the need for the service line management approach in health care.