Health Leadership Development Program

The Institute for Civic Leadership (ICL) and the Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership formed a strategic partnership in 2005, with the goal of developing a new Health Leadership Development (HLD) program for Maine. HLD identifies emerging health care leaders and provides them with training in collaborative and facilitative leadership, plus the tools, knowledge and relationships they need to make a difference for Maine’s health system.

Health care has become one of the most important aspects of life in Maine. As the state population ages, the need for care is increasing at a rapid rate. The rising cost of providing health care services and health coverage is one of our state’s most challenging issues. Although many health care initiatives are underway throughout Maine, efforts to collaboratively address these issues often break down for a variety of reasons.

Clearly, Maine needs more leaders with the vision, skills and relationships to effectively tackle complex issues. They must have the ability to look beyond competitive and political concerns and provide leadership that will be in the best interests of all Maine citizens.

The first annual Health Leadership Development program was launched in late September 2007 and ran through April 2008, for a total of 15 days of training. Thirty-two class members from hospitals, public health, government agencies, health insurers, advocacy groups, employers and other health related organizations comprised the first class. Participants have a demonstrated record of achievement and hold promise for taking on increased leadership responsibilities in the years ahead.

Now in its fifth year, more than 130 leaders have taken part in the program. Each year, the HLD brings together a diverse mix of experienced leaders from a wide range of health and health care settings and professions to build their individual collaborative leadership skills and prepare them to lead efforts aimed at improving quality and expanding access to affordable care. While these dedicated individuals come from different backgrounds and communities, they share a deep commitment to making a difference here in Maine.

Using the successful format of ICL’s Leadership Intensive (over 650 alums) and the healthcare expertise of the Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership, the program provides participants with the skills and confidence needed to address Maine’s growing health and healthcare issues. Through this program, scores of emerging leaders across the state will be prepared to address potentially contentious issues and to develop much needed collaborative solutions for Maine.

For complete details on the Health Leadership Development program, visit the program’s website at www.healthleadershipmaine.org.