Enhancing the quality of clinical supervision and clinical leadership through a unique workplace-based postgraduate program

Enhancing the quality of clinical supervision and clinical leadership through a unique workplace-based postgraduate program Prof Judi Walker, Jo Osborne, Stella Stevens Faculty of Health Science, University of Tasmania Introduction/Background: Strong leadership and governance in health systems are critical to address the challenges and changes in health service delivery. Studies demonstrate that reduced risk and better quality care flow from effective leadership and well-designed clinical systems that are subject to regular multidisciplinary reviews of outcomes. The University of Tasmania, in partnership with the Sydney South West Area Health Service, has developed a Master of Clinical Supervision and Clinical Leadership. It is the first of its kind in Australia providing a unique opportunity for participants to enhance the quality of clinical supervision and leadership through a health-focused leadership program. The course, with Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma exit points, was introduced in July 2008. It blends the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of clinical leadership and with practical application in clinical practice. It provides accessible and flexible education options for clinicians in a range of environments through a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. It integrates workplace-based learning with clinical practice. Purpose/objectives: • To explore different approaches to health workforce and leadership development • To discuss ways to develop and enhance partnerships for workforce development • To critically examine problem solving and partnership extension processes • To share ideas and experiences about the strengths and weaknesses of workplace-based postgraduate programs. Issues for exploration/ideas for discussion: • The relationship between education and research and service quality • The relationship between workplace-based training and health workforce • The pros and cons of partnerships between education providers and health services • The capacity of education providers to respond to health service requirements.