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Inclusive Leadership and Psychological Safety Among Oncology Advanced Practice Providers: Implications for Team-Based Practice

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: As health care continues to evolve in the United States, team-based care has become an essential approach to managing complex patient needs, particularly in oncology. Advanced practice providers (APPs), including nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician associates (PAs), play a pivotal role in oncology care teams; however, limited research has examined the dynamics of leadership and psychological safety (PS) within these teams. This study explored the relationship between team leadership factors, leader inclusiveness (LI) and leader-member exchange (LMX), and PS among oncology APPs. Using a national cross-sectional survey of 84 APPs, findings demonstrated that LI and LMX were positively associated with PS, whereas demographic and professional characteristics were not significant predictors. These results highlight the importance of fostering inclusive leadership and strong leader-member relationships to enhance PS and, ultimately, team effectiveness in oncology care. Implications for practice, education, and future research are discussed.

Source: Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology

DOI: 10.6004/jadpro.2026.17.5.2

Author: Steven H. Wei, EdD, MPH, MS, PA-C, DFAPPA

Institution: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Language: English

Topic: Team Dynamics and Performance

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7213413594