Training needs assessment of hospital CEOs in a developing country: the example of Iran

BACKGROUND: It is essential to identify the necessary competencies of hospital CEOs in order to improve the quality and efficiency of services they provide. Expert leadership skills and competencies can have a significant impact on the success of an organization, benefiting both patients and staff. This study aimed to assess the competencies and training needs of hospital CEOs in Iran public hospitals. METHODS: We conducted this cross-sectional analytical study through a self-assessment questionnaire, which was a web-based platform developed by the WHO country office in Iran, between July 2018 and September 2018. The questionnaire was completed by 180 hospital CEOs and included a core set of 81 items based on Assessing the Competency of Hospital CEO. These items were categorized into five superordinate categories: leadership, personality and quality of individual behavior, knowledge and business skills, social responsibility, and healthcare environment. In addition, we conducted focus groups with 30 hospital CEOs, supervisor assessments with 10 hospital managers, and interviews with 10 supervisors. RESULTS: Of the 180 questionnaires distributed, 78% were returned, and most respondents were medical specialists. The need for leadership competencies such as individual behavior skills and change management received the highest priority. Most respondents required training in management skills, including financial management, governance, strategic thinking, quality improvement, and disaster management. CONCLUSION: Providing needs-based education is crucial, especially in developing countries. In this study, leadership and strategic thinking were found to be the most needed competencies among hospital CEOs in Iran. These findings serve as reference points for developing countries with similar backgrounds and healthcare environments as Iran. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-023-04463-2.