Evaluating the Impact of a Physician Leadership Development Program on Patient-Physician Relationships: A Narrative Review

Patient-centered care relies on strong relationships between patients and physicians that direct satisfaction, trust, and treatment compliance. With the growth of the complexity of healthcare regimes, physician leadership has become a significant component that determines the organizational performance and the patient experience. This literature review considers extant literature on the contribution of physician leadership development programs in the improvement of relationships between patients and physicians. Based on the evidence provided in different healthcare environments, the review examines the influence of leadership competencies, including communication, emotional intelligence, and professionalism, on relational aspects of care. The results indicate that patient perceptions may be positively impacted through leadership development improving the behavior of physicians and their interaction with patients. The implications on medical education and health policy are also discussed within the review, which include the necessity to integrate leadership training as one of the professional competencies. All in all, physician leadership development is a potential promising strategy of enhancing the relationship between physicians and patients and promoting patient-centered healthcare delivery.