CHLNet concept and ongoing activities

In 2006, an ad-hoc "coalition of the willing" (health system leaders from across the country) met and resolved to work toward addressing the imminent leadership shortage through the creation of the Canadian Health Leadership Network (CHLNet). In 2007, over one hundred emerging and senior health system leaders from across the country gathered in Ottawa to review the progress of CHLNet and provide feedback regarding next steps. Overall, there was broad support for the concept, as well as commitment to the next steps identified by participants.

Since that time, CHLNet has made significant progress. The Canadian Medical Association provided the first Secretariat for the Network. The Canadian College of Health Service Executives took over the Secretariat functions in January 2009. Recent activities include:

• Development of a 2009-2012 strategic plan
• Signing of a contribution agreement with Health Canada to carry out leadership development research, including a health leadership development program inventory (research led by the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University)
• Elaboration of action research projects to validate the health leadership capabilities framework
• Publication of regular CHLNet newsletters to update stakeholders
• Partnership discussions to link to a "one-stop shopping" portal that will provide organizations and individuals interested in health leadership with rapid access to current health leadership information and opportunities, leadership development programs and related resources, leading practices in leadership, and current research findings. This portal will also provide a new avenue for dialogue and connection amongst members, organizations, and networks focused on leadership and professional development.

To summarize, CHLNet values the development of leaders throughout the lifecycle of leadership and through a variety of means, both virtual and in real time, in real space. The concepts and deliverables of CHLNet are germane and applicable to a host of health system stakeholders. CHLNet is Canada's Premier Health Leadership Development Network.