Multi-source feedback reinforces junior doctors' awareness of the need to achieve and train clinical leadership

Increasing complexity in healthcare makes it necessary to strengthen leadership training in postgraduate medical education (PGME). Multi-source feedback (MSF) is an acknowledged formative assessment method widely implemented in PGME. The present study examined how MSF may support junior doctors' awareness of the need to achieve and train leadership skills in clinical practice.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 junior doctors late in PGME after they had completed a leadership-focused MSF process. Written personal development plans were collected. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

The majority of the junior doctors found that the MSF process was intense, rewarding and helpful for understanding the many facets of clinical leadership. The personal feedback dialogue and the development plan were highlighted as the most beneficial elements of the process. The MSF process identified new learning objectives for leadership development such as task delegation, independent decision-making, becoming a role model and giving and seeking feedback.

Junior doctors found that a leadership-focused MSF process increased their attention to and awareness of leadership in daily clinical practice and provided deep insights into and specific tools to develop leadership skills. Thus, a leadership-focused MSF process may contribute to and increase junior doctors' leadership skills.

The study was supported financially by the Central and North Denmark Region.

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