An integrated leadership approach in improving service delivery in health care

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between leadership styles adopted by managers in the district hospital in the Limpopo province in South Africa (SA) and service delivery to rural communities in the area. This study was essential as over 70% of district hospitals in SA are non-compliant with meeting its service delivery commitments. There was a need to investigate whether the challenges associated with the poor service delivery were related to the leadership styles adopted by managers in the district hospital. Both transformational and transactional leadership styles formed the basis of the study. A quantitative research methodology and case study were used. A Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) was used to determine which leadership styles were adopted and the outcomes at the hospital. The survey was completed by seventy managers in the hospital. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that certain leadership styles, as well as attributes impacted on service delivery to communities. The data suggested that, although some transformational leadership traits were exhibited by managers at the hospital, this had not necessarily led to improved service delivery to communities. The study was therefore critical, as it has become evident to policymakers that an expansion in the scope and quality of health care to rural communities in SA is vital. Recommendations were made for the improvement of service delivery by the hospital. An integrated leadership approach is therefore essential with a view to addressing challenges in the hospital and improving service delivery to the community.