An approach to the assessment of learning needs for physician-managers

In recent years physicians have become increasingly involved in the decision-making and policy-making processes in hospitals and other health service organizations. Consequently, there is a growing awareness of the need for specialized education programs for physicians who have managerial responsibilities. While education programs in management for physicians have been available in Britain and the United States for a number of years, relatively few programs have existed in Canada. Typically, physicians who have assumed administrative positions either within the medical staff organization or within the hospital's management structure have received no formal training in management. This article examines reasons for the increased demand for management education for physicians in Canada, specific needs of physicians in the area of management education, and the assessment of needs for management education programs.