Date of Degree

8-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Program

Business Administration

Advisor

William Kiser, MD

Advisor

Adam Ratner, MD

Advisor

David Garza, MD

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Exploring Effective Leadership Qualities of Rural Hospital CEOs:

A Qualitative Investigation

By: Karl Hittle

University of the Incarnate Word, 2024

Competent healthcare executives who successfully lead the healthcare delivery systems in small communities are limited in number despite the tremendous need for their expertise. Information describing the specific characteristics of successful Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) for rural medical centers is lacking in the current body of literature. This study investigates the leadership characteristics of successful rural hospital CEOs using information gleaned from those who have proven to be successful in this critical section of the healthcare industry. A qualitative phenomenological approach to the investigation was used with the intentional selection of ten subjects using face-to-face interviews. Interview questions were designed to solicit in-depth, personal responses from those hospital CEOs in Texas who have achieved success and are recognized as successful amongst their peers. Using the MAXQDA software (VERBI Software, 2022), interview data were coded and condensed into three themes that revealed the characteristics the participants believed to be important for success in their roles. Those themes include Authenticity Personally and Professionally, Approachable and Accessible, and Integrity Builds Trust and Credibility. This study will provide valuable insights for hospital CEOs and hospital board members seeking the development or recruitment of a CEO to lead their organization. It may also serve as a resource for healthcare leaders in general who seek enhancement of their leadership effectiveness.

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