Investigating the Impact of Leadership Competencies on Digital Health Adoption Among Healthcare Providers: A Cross-Sectional Study Protocol

Digital health transformation is a strategic priority for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, yet healthcare organizations face persistent challenges in achieving successful adoption. This protocol describes a crosssectional study investigating the impact of leadership competencies on digital health adoption among healthcare providers at King Salman Medical City, examining the mediating roles of change readiness and training effectiveness. An analytical cross-sectional design will recruit healthcare providers through stratified random sampling. Data collection utilizes validated instruments including the Leadership Practices Inventory, Organizational Readiness for Change Assessment, Technology Acceptance Model questionnaire, and Kirkpatrick Training Evaluation scales. Structural equation modeling will test hypothesized relationships and mediation effects. The study will provide empirical evidence regarding leadership competencies’ direct effects on digital health adoption and mediating mechanisms, informing leadership development strategies and workforce preparation initiatives supporting digital transformation.