Abstract

This paper appraised the benefits of emotional intelligence in healthcare in Nigeria. The concept of Emotional
Intelligence (EI) in healthcare, although not identified as an integral part of the healthcare infrastructure, is in
reality, interwoven into everything that is delivered as part of a service provision. Emotional Intelligence is a crucial
concept to integrate within healthcare organisations across all levels of employees. The knowledge of Emotional
intelligence enables individuals to understand their emotions, emotional meanings and to reflectively regulate these
emotions whilst transitioning through change initiatives and periods of significant and, sometimes, rapid
transformation. Through Emotional Intelligence (EI), healthcare organisations can empower everyone, from
leaders, managers and staff at all levels and within the health sector. Similarly, by understanding their ability and
capacity as professionals, leaders with emotional intelligence can help their staff reach their full potential to not only
perceive, access and manage their emotions, but that of others as well; be it leader, peer or subordinate. This would
be deemed core strength within itself. Out of this changed culture and transformation process, will arise a new vision
of professional healthcare, corporate or public sector practice; embedding EI as a core component within their
mandatory compliance infrastructure. Emotionally intelligent staff means a healthier organisation which for the
healthcare, can lead to better patient centred-care.