LEADERSHIP IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AS A WAY TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Leadership is directly related to the capacity to cope with challenges that are part of the work of health professionals. The importance of leadership is reinforced when observing the unpreparedness of “accidental leaders” professionals and the underrepresentation in these positions. In addition, the concern about creating a safety culture of professional well-being and patient health is present in health organizations. On the other hand, the literature on leadership in the field of training health professionals may be limited. Hence, it is essential to bring to the discussion the influence of leadership as an essential agent for medical education and a benefit for collective health. Thus, we aimed to analyze the role of leadership in the construction of the medical curriculum and in the management of health services, plus its contribution to the well-being of society. This is an integrative review research based on studies that investigated the importance of leadership for the improvement of medical education in the last five years. The analysis of selected articles showed that leadership skills among students favor partnerships with mentors and work on projects. An effective leader makes the team comply with the planning by efficient management and good relationship, demonstrating the reduction of conflicts, assertive communication, and better assistance to patients. The lack of implementation of inclusive policies is still a reality, but women are already considered emerging leaders.