Thokala et al. (2016) define decision-making as “the process of making important or critical decisions” (p. 2). Leaders and managers should be good decision-makers in order to support the needs of their followers. The effectiveness of the decision-making process dictates the success of the targeted healthcare institution or program.
Decision-Making Methods
Leaders can use appropriate decision-making methods to achieve their goals. The first approach is known as autocratic decision-making. As the name suggests, the autocratic leader makes the final decision and guides his or her followers accordingly. Consultative decision-making method is whereby the leader collaborates with different individuals and workers in order to come up with best decision. The “leader’s role is to solicit the opinions, ideas, expectations, and suggestions of the followers” (Thokala et al., 2016, p. 3). On the other hand, group decision-making method is whereby choices are made by every participant. Several alternatives are identified in an attempt to select the best decision or option.
Decision-Making Approach as a Manager
Dental health managers must possess the best competencies and skills. Such abilities are useful towards ensuring the targeted patients receive quality dental care. As a manager of the dental public health program, I will embrace the power of group decision-making approach. This decision-making approach will encourage my followers to focus on the best results. The decision-making method will allow more individuals to present their opinions and suggestions. The concept of teamwork will also be embraced throughout the public health program implementation. Every person in the group will be allowed to present his or her ideas (Longest, 2004). The voice of every member will be taken seriously. The ultimate goal will be to identify the best actions and strategies that can support the dental health needs of many community members.
I have selected this decision-making method because it has the potential to produce quality results. Members of the group will be involved in every decision-making process. The decisions made will focus on the welfare of the targeted members (Longest, 2004). As well, the decisions will be aimed at promoting the best practices that can support the oral health issues of the targeted community.
Decision-Making Competencies
As a dental health manager, I will embrace the power of group leadership. This style makes it easier for managers to empower, guide, mentor, and support their followers (Longest, 2004). Decisions will be made in a professional and timely manner. This leadership style will also make it easier for me to collaborate with different stakeholders. Every emerging issue will also be addressed in a competent manner. The leadership approach will eventually ensure the health program supports the needs of many people.
Targeted Goals
Group decision-making methods have been observed to empower more individuals in different teams (Longest, 2004). Leaders should be able to make accurate decisions and empower their teammates. The group decision-making approach will support the team to develop the best health promotion models. Such models will address the dental health needs of many people in the targeted community. Members of the public will also be required to present their views in order to support the dental public health project (Thokala et al., 2016). Different stakeholders such as public health workers, physicians, dentists, and caregivers will be part of the group. This approach will make it possible for the group to make desirable decisions and eventually address the oral health issues affecting many people.
Reference List
Longest, B. (2004). Managing Health Programs and Projects. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Thokala, P., Devlin, N., Marsh, K., Baltussen, R., Boysen, M., Kalo, Z.,…Ijzerman, M. (2016). Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis for Health Care Decision Making: An Introduction. Value in Health, 19(1), 1-13.