Exploring reflective practice among clinical managers: benefits, barriers, and recommendations for implementation

To explore the ways in which Clinical Managers engage with, and undertake, reflective practice in relation to their skills and abilities as managers, and to derive recommendations for future practice. A review of the literature reveals individual and organisational benefits when Clinical Managers engage in reflective practice. However, various barriers exist, and there are many varied ways reflective practice may be undertaken. Two rounds of focus groups with Clinical Managers from a large independent UK hospital were conducted, using a Modified Delphi Model. This aimed to identify benefits, barriers, and potential organisational methods for reflective practice. Despite numerous benefits to undertaking reflective practice, many Clinical Managers are unaware of these approaches and did not see it as a priority. There is also a lack of knowledge and understanding of the most effective way Clinical Managers should undertake reflective practice. Clinical Managers should be encouraged to undertake reflective practice. Recognised benefits should be shared, and uptake encouraged at both individual and organisational levels. The best method for reflective practice remains unclear, so preferences and needs should guide the chosen intervention. Ongoing reassessment and evaluation of reflective practice interventions are essential.