Introduction In response to increasing pressures on the health care service, this research explores the importance of effective medical leadership. The study is written from the perspective of a final year medical student, furthermore, it explores the challenges faced in developing leadership skills and highlights the importance of leaders in navigating complex healthcare scenarios. With limited exposure during the undergraduate programme, the piece advocates for the further integration of structured leadership programmes in medical education. The piece also addresses the underrepresentation of BME staff in NHS leaderships and highlights the need for targeted schemes to overcome this gap. Conclusively the research aims to encourage a comprehensive approach to leadership development.

Aims and objectives of the research project or activity The research aims to address the need for effective leadership within the NHS by examining the role of medical leadership skills in healthcare organisations. The study highlights the pivotal role of leaders in guiding the NHS through challenges especially as pressures on the NHS increase year on year. It discusses the increasing expectation for medical professionals to demonstrate leadership skills and emphasises the importance of incorporating leadership development into medical education.

It also explores the personal journey of a the author as a medical student, highlighting the limited exposure to medical leadership during undergraduate studies and the need for a deeper understanding in the undergraduate programme of how healthcare systems collaborate and optimise patient care.

Additionally, the study explores the lack of diversity in healthcare leadership. It discusses the underrepresentation of BME medical students and staff in leadership roles and proposes solutions to address this disparity, emphasising the importance of representation for aspiring BME leaders.

Furthermore, the research addresses the challenges faced by medical students and junior doctors in understanding their role within the NHS structure and the need for more structured leadership programs in medical schools. It cites evidence which highlight the positive impact of leadership training programs on students’ skills and self-efficacy.

In conclusion, the research emphasises the collective responsibility of experienced clinicians and medical schools in fostering leadership opportunities. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to leadership development, ranging from optimising medical school curriculum to structured programs for professionals at various career stages, with the goal of preparing future doctors for leadership roles in the complex healthcare landscape.

Method or approach The project employed a qualitative approach, utilising a reflective methodology based on the authors personal experiences and observations. It is written from the perspective as a final-year medical student who engaged in an elective opportunity with The Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management and NHS England and explores the insights gained from the programme. The research also incorporates an analysis of existing data, such as the 2022 Medical Workforce Race Equality Standard (MWRES) report, to examine the representation of BME individuals in NHS leadership roles. The findings were synthesised to advocate for the need for comprehensive leadership development initiatives in medical education.

Findings The research revealed a critical need for enhanced medical leadership development, with a focus on integrating leadership skills into medical education as evidence highlights a gap between the recognition and integration of medical leadership skills in the curriculum. The piece also highlighted the underrepresentation of BME individuals in NHS leadership roles, calling for targeted training initiatives. Additionally, the research identified challenges faced by medical students and junior doctors in navigating the NHS structure. The findings emphasised the collective responsibility of clinicians and medical schools in fostering leadership opportunities to prepare future doctors for effective roles in healthcare provision.

Key messages The research highlights the critical need for medical leadership development in response to increasing pressures on the NHS and thus the need for effective leadership. It emphasises the importance of integrating leadership skills into medical education, addressing the limited exposure and challenges faced by medical students and junior doctors. The underrepresentation of BME individuals in NHS leadership roles underscores the importance of targeted training initiatives to foster diversity. The project advocates for a comprehensive approach to leadership development, involving experienced clinicians and formalised programs in medical schools. By promoting inclusive leadership, the research aims to positively impact the future composition of healthcare leaders, ensuring preparedness for the complex healthcare landscape. Overall, the study highlights the collective responsibility to nurture and provide opportunities for aspiring doctors to become effective leaders in healthcare provision.