Dr Paula Conroy1
1Insight Health Advisory, , Australia
Biography:
Dr Paula Conroy BSc MBBS DCH FRACGP GAICD MHLM
Full bio to come
NB – Abstract submission site stated bio of 100 words whilst biography field only allows 50 words.
Abstract:
Aim
Leaders in emergency services operate under sustained pressure, with high cognitive load, fatigue and competing demands at work and beyond. Despite this, health is rarely considered a factor influencing leadership performance. This presentation explores the often-overlooked relationship between health and leadership performance, sharing practical insights from a doctor-led program designed to help leaders recognise the impact of sustained pressure and rebuild the capacity their roles depend on.
Method
A cohort of senior emergency service leaders participated in the program, an applied intervention grounded in preventive medicine and behaviour change. The program used an interactive format incorporating real-time self-assessment, practical activities and a framework spanning five domains of leadership health. Participants completed baseline and 30-day follow-up self-assessments.
Results
At 30 days, participants demonstrated a 20.4% improvement in overall leadership health capacity. The largest gains were seen in preventive health engagement (+35.7%), health behaviours (+34.6%) and physical capacity (+26.9%). Participants reported improved sleep, increased physical activity and reduced alcohol intake. Notably, 67% engaged in a preventive health check, leading to early identification of previously unrecognised risks.
Conclusion
Leadership performance is not just cognitive, it's physiological. When health capacity declines, it affects energy, decision-making and the ability to lead. This case study demonstrates that brief, practical interventions can prompt meaningful behaviour change when emergency leaders are given insight and simple tools to act. This session includes practical examples participants can apply in their own contexts, highlighting how integrating preventive health into leadership development can support performance and sustainability in high-pressure environments.