RESEARCH TOPIC AND THESIS STATEMENT
ROLE OF LEADERSHIP IN CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN HEALTHCARE
Change management is a systematic approach that focuses on the thorough and smooth implementation of change in the organization. The purpose of change management is to implement strategies that can effectively effect change, control change, and help people adapt to change. Change in healthcare is inevitable and varies depending on the patient, provider, and health system needs. The success of change implementation is highly dependent on effective leadership and leadership styles employed in change processes. According to Daly, Hill, & Jackson (2015), effective leaders are needed for effective change to occur. They can handle the barriers encountered in the change processes. Therefore, my research paper focuses on the role of leadership in change management in the healthcare system.
Thesis statement
A strong leadership base is responsible for increased positive outcomes. Understanding the role leaders play in effecting change is crucial for effective transition and attainment of set goals. Leaders are not immune to pressure, as the employees look upon their leaders for clarifications, connections, and accountability during the change. A research article by Forbes revealed shocking acumens concerning change management and leadership: Despite 55% of leaders meeting their set goals, 25% were only successful in initiating long term changes, and most of the implemented changes did not last. The lack of effective leadership and understanding of the role directly correlates with poor change implementation and coordination. A lot of leaders want to change but a few of them make it happen (Dally, Hill, & Jackson, 2015).
Change is usually planned and it can be incorporating new ideas in practice or solving existing problems. It is true that during the process of change, a level of resistance is inevitable and requires effective leaders to effectively address the resistance and successfully implement the changes (Menaker, 2019). Understanding leadership and change management are important in overcoming resistance and improving relationships: a core element in leadership when dealing with challenging change environments. Increasing a leader’s awareness of their role, transformational leadership, leadership skills, and competencies, and enhancing strategic development will help enhance organizational performance (Gill, 2017). Therefore, identifying and understanding the role of leaders in change, and effectively executing one’s roles will help save resources and time while successfully achieving short-term and long-term goals.
Research plan
A research plan outlines research aims, the purpose of the research, implementation process, resources, and expected outcomes (Gill, 2017). It should be realistic, and a well-articulated plan can act as a reference point, keep track of one’s progress, and acts as a reminder.
Rationale: The healthcare system is continuously changing, and it is crucial to adjust to meet the health needs of the population. This way, change management is an important aspect of attaining change goals. Effective leaders are needed for successful implementation of change, and attainment of goals.
Objectives: To understand the role of a leader in change management.
To identify leadership traits and styles essential in attaining goals.
To describe the role of other stakeholders in effecting change.
To establish the need for training for leaders and change agents
Methods: The research will be conducted by the collection of both primary and secondary data. Primary data will be collected in the healthcare system by establishing the role of the change agents, managers, and charge nurses. Questionnaires and face-to-face interviews will be used. Secondary data will be obtained from peer-reviewed articles and journals, and previous researches on the topic
Resources: Adequate funding is needed. The people involved in the research include health providers, leaders, and change agents within the health system.
Ethics: Consent should be obtained from participants after explaining the purpose. The research must be approved before commencing.
Expected outcomes: The healthcare will understand the importance of effective leadership, leadership traits, and styles in the change process. Besides, the leader will effectively play their role, and the change will be integrated into the healthcare process.
References
Daly, J., Hill, M. N., & Jackson, D. (2015). Leadership and healthcare change management. J. Daly, S. Speedy, & D. Jackson Leadership and Nursing: Contemporary Perspectives, 81-90.
Gill, R. (2017). Change management–or change leadership? Journal of change management, 3(4), 307-318. https://doi.org/10.1080/714023845
Gopee, N., & Galloway, J. (2017). Leadership and management in healthcare. Sage. Retrieved from: https://books.google.co.ke/books?hl=en&lr=&id=GRgjDgAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq
Menaker, R. (2019). Leadership strategies in healthcare. J Med Pract. Manage, 24(6), 339-343. Retrieved from: https://search.proquest.com/openview/591cc70c206fba97c6fe073912491488/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=32264