Leadership Behavior of Local Leaders in Cavite’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69569/jip.2024.0514Keywords:
City health offices, COVID-19 vaccination program response, Health officers, Hierarchal taxonomy of leadership behavior, Leadership behavior, Qualitative case study, Vaccinees' behaviorAbstract
In response to the COVID-19 immunization campaign on-site, this research investigated the leadership behaviors of health officials from Bacoor, Dasmariñas, and Tagaytay. From September 2021 to February 2022, seven health officials were interviewed using a qualitative descriptive case study methodology. Their task-, relations-, and change-oriented behaviors were examined using the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Leadership Behavior paradigm. In-depth interviews were used to gather data, transcribed, and subjected to axial, in-vivo, and open coding methods for analysis. The findings showed that schedule preparation, rule clarification, subordinate supervision, and proactive issue-solving were all significant examples of task-oriented activities. Although a lack of appreciation for coworkers' efforts was seen, relations-oriented actions included resolving disputes, fostering subordinates' problem-solving skills, and consulting colleagues. Coordination with other local government units (LGUs), creative problem-solving, and motivating subordinates to learn from setbacks were all examples of change-oriented practices. Electronic communication technologies were often used to carry out leadership behaviors, exhibiting flexibility in problem-solving. After difficulties were resolved, health officers reported feeling relieved and having a greater awareness of their strengths and shortcomings. Vaccinees' unfavorable attitudes, however, were shown to have an impact on how they solved problems, highlighting the need for open communication and strict adherence to health center policies. The research emphasizes the need for local health offices to establish recognition programs to recognize the accomplishments of health officers and strengthen their interpersonal ties. Additionally, vaccine orientation before site visits may help improve the overall effectiveness of vaccination programs by minimizing misunderstandings and unfavorable attitudes. This study advances our knowledge of leadership dynamics in health emergencies and emphasizes the vital role that good leadership behaviors play in overcoming public health crises.
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