The role of leadership in enhancing non-technical skills in healthcare: a qualitative study in a Balkan context

Leadership plays a key role in strengthening NTSs in Balkan healthcare contexts by promoting communication and teamwork within culturally and hierarchically complex environments. Role clarity, open dialogue, and shared accountability emerged as key factors for effective team performance and patient safety. These findings highlight the need for leadership development and the implementation of formal training initiatives-such as structured mentorship programs-to foster collaborative and resilient healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries.