Physiotherapy managers' perceptions of their leadership effectiveness: a multi-frame analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Leadership Studies
• Physiotherapy Practice

Background:

• Effective leadership is crucial for physiotherapy managers in the current healthcare landscape.
• A comprehensive, adaptable, and balanced leadership style is essential for success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the leadership frames utilized by physiotherapy managers in Ireland.
• To understand the relationship between leadership frames and perceived managerial/leadership effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A purposive, cross-sectional study design was employed.
• Physiotherapy managers (n=73) from the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists were surveyed using the Bolman and Deal Leadership Orientations Instrument.
• A response rate of 62% (n=45) was achieved.

Main Results:

• The human resource frame was the most frequently used (61%), while the political frame was least used (9%).
• A majority of respondents (65%) reported using only one or no leadership frames.
• A statistically significant positive trend was found between the number of leadership frames used and perceived effectiveness as a manager and leader.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of the human resource frame suggests physiotherapy managers prioritize relationship-building.
• Developing underutilized leadership skills through targeted training could enhance managers' capabilities and confidence.