The emerging role of emotional intelligence in healthcare leadership: a scoping review

Purpose In healthcare, research has documented that emotional intelligence (EI) is known to influence and impact leadership effectiveness. This study aims to undertake a scoping review on the role of EI in healthcare leadership to determine the extent of impact, the association of EI with certain leadership styles, the methodologies used, and the associated outcomes with workplace and team performance, patient care and satisfaction, and reducing stress and burnout. Design/methodology/approach A total of 30 publications (2000–2024) were selected from PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, DOAJ, and SpringerLink using defined keywords and criteria. Findings The key recurring themes observed revolve around the dimensions of EI, key effective leadership indicators, primary subjects of research of EI in healthcare, and research environment for the same. Empathy and social skills were the most crucial EI dimensions for effective leadership. Job performance, stress reduction, and patient satisfaction were noted to be key leadership effectiveness indicators. Healthcare managers and physicians were the primary subjects of research, and hospital setting was the most common research environment. Originality/value Although the quality of studies is generally high, future research should explore EI-based leadership beyond hospitals, including primary care and long-term care settings, while also examining its impact on nurses and allied health professionals. Expanding the scope will provide a more comprehensive understanding of EI in healthcare leadership. Integrating EI training into leadership programs can enhance workplace dynamics, reduce stress, and improve both staff well-being and patient care.