Ethical leadership in health-care organizations – a scoping review

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of EL style on key variables in health-care settings. Very few studies investigate the impact and outcomes of EL on health-care organizations. Synthesis of evidence will assist health-care leaders in making informed decisions about the outcomes they can expect from practicing EL.

Design/methodology/approach

Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage framework is used for conducting the scoping review. The databases include Scopus, Emerald Insight and Web of Science.

Findings

A total of 22 studies were finally considered for scoping review. The data are presented in terms of years, sampling techniques, sample size, data collection methods, and the directional relationship of the variables with EL.

Practical implications

Managers should be trained in EL style as it promotes the sustainability of the environment and organizations. Furthermore, EL should be promoted in health-care organizations as it improves employee resilience and voicing behavior and reduces instances of adverse events and medication errors, thus making the hospital a better and safer place.

Originality/value

This is one of the studies investigating the EL implications for health-care managers.

Citation

Singh, A. and Vashist, H. (2025), "Ethical leadership in health-care organizations – a scoping review", Leadership in Health Services, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 136-152. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHS-04-2024-0035