‘Summits’ is a unique programme for training next generation leadership in six specializing and relatively small hospitals in Israel, owned and operated by ‘CLALIT’ – the largest HMO in Israel.

The challenge was to build a training programme that would address the unique situation and culture of each hospital as well as the culture ‘CLALIT’, but also to create a common baseline of leadership skills and to develop them as an inter-hospital quality group.

The programme, based on the PBL method, had three dimensions: self-consciousness, better familiarization with the hospital and the CLALIT, and the interface between the different professions in these hospitals, as well as between the hospitals.

Each hospital selected a team of five participants from different professions who already demonstrated leadership skills, as well as a small group of mentors. Each team conducted two projects: learning about their hospital and introducing it to the other groups; identifying together with the hospital’s Director General an important challenge and to come up with ways to address it.

The results were very encouraging. It was found that the PBL substantially increased the motivation and involvement of the participants, as well as their willingness to exercise leadership, and take responsibility and ownership of projects in the hospital. They also felt empowered and appreciated. In the long run, it should help preventing burn-out. The participants from each hospital developed a group mentality; some have already been nominated to their first management positions. The success of the first pilot led to the continuation of this training programme.

Leadership training by making people from different professions in the hospital joining hands and collaborate on real challenges is a winning methodology. It not only contributes to the individuals who took part, but also improves the organizational ecosystem of the hospitals.