HUMANIZATION OF HEALTH CONTEXTS, A MATTER OF LEADERSHIP

Abstract

This cross-sectional and detailed study consists of the first empirical approach to study humanization of health contexts through quantitative and qualitative methods. Its purpose is to describe the characteristics of the humanization carried by leaders in health contexts.  This is shown through the humanization of health leadership interview, and the questionnaire of abilities for humanization of health leadership. The  sample population consisted of 13 persons who were leaders of the Humanization of Health National Movement from Antioquia, Valle, Cundinamarca, and Atlántico.  They were interviewed in the cities of Bogotá and Cali about their attitudes, abilities, knowledge, motivations, and experiences on December of 2005. Results show that leaders have abilities to communicate and solve problems, and take on humanization of health as part of their life project, trying to bring welfare to others in different contexts in which they take part. Conclusions: humanization in the health definitely requires leaders who are characterized by generating changes in behaviour and attitudes of people, promoting the overall well-being, from treatment humanized.