Module 3 Introduction

In this module we will consider some of the important characteristics of organizations and health care organizations in particular.   The focus of this course in leadership is on leadership in the context of health care systems thus some attention to the characteristics of such organizations seems indicated.  

In addition to considering the structure of health care organizations we will also consider organizational culture, stages of development in organizational life, the interface between organizational culture and leadership, and the special challenges of health care organizations.   Much of the research and resulting literature on organizations focuses on non-health related organizations.  Thus, it seems relevant to examine the topics of organizational culture, values, leadership and stages in the development of organizational life while also keeping in mind the unique characteristics of health care organizations.  And, in today’s ever changing environment and the rapid advent of new ideas and technology, organizations are required to be Learning Organizations.