Strategic leader attributes for clinical leaders in an HIV healthcare system: Perspectives of healthcare providers in AMPATH clinic, at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret,Kenya

Abstract Background Healthcare institutions strive for better healthcare systems with clinical leaders to provide excellent patient care. However, there is paucity in the literature on what strategic leader attributes should clinical leaders have to perform clinical and leadership functions in an HIV health system. Methods We explored healthcare providers' perceptions regarding the strategic leader attributes of clinical leaders in AMPATH-Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret Kenya. We conducted (n = 22) in-depth interviews with healthcare providers including clinical officers, nurses, social workers, counselors, retention officers, and, pharmacists who were purposively sampled from the AMPATH-MTRH HIV facility between September 2019 to May 2020. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach. Results The findings identified 4 domains of strategic clinical leader attributes. Training and expertise: clinical competence, informed, and knowledgeable. Personality traits: team leader, trustworthy, honest and integrity, flexible and swift, impartial and mentor. Interpersonal skills: approachable, good listener and understanding, good communication skills, good relationship, interaction, and respect. Managerial traits: good planner, accountable, disciplined, dedicated and hardworking, innovative, problem-solver, organized, and vocal. Conclusion Clinical leaders require strategic leader attributes to lead HIV health systems, manage patient dynamics and provide excellent HIV care. The leadership and management of the HIV facility should develop the capacities of the clinical leaders to a more strategic leadership approach so that they become dynamic and responsive in their leadership and clinical roles.