Introduction. Emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the most valuable resources of managers who increase the level of motivation of the team, prevent burnout and are able to influence the quality of medical care. This study aims to study the level of EI among managers in the healthcare system and identify the factors that influence it. Materials and methods. The study was conducted within the framework of a cross-sectional design using standardized questionnaires to assess EI, the level of emotional burnout and leadership qualities of managers in the medical system: the D. V. Lyusin EI questionnaire, the C. D. Spielberger—Yu. L. Khanin anxiety scale and the Zharikov—Krushelnitsky leadership qualities test. Statistical processing was carried out using MS Excel and jamovi. Results. A total of 44 heads of the healthcare system participated in the study. The average age of the participants was 44.9 ± 8.1 years; 81.8% were women. The median of the total EI index is 88.5 (80.8—95.0), which corresponds to a medium-high level. The average values of situational anxiety were 37 (34—42.3) points, personal anxiety — 48 (46—50.3) points. Gender, age, place of residence, marital status, and financial status did not significantly affect EI. According to the leadership qualities questionnaire, the average score was 29 (26—33). 11 people (25%) have weak leadership qualities, 29 people (65.9%) have moderate leadership qualities, and 4 people (9.1%) have strong leadership qualities. Gender, age, place of residence, marital status, the presence of chronic diseases and the level of financial security did not affect the EI indicators. The presence of children, favorable living conditions, and the fact of studying under health organization programs had a positive impact on the sub-schools. A positive correlation was also established between length of service and MP (r=0.452, p=0.002). Conclusions. Medical leaders demonstrate generally developed EI, which is closely related to the manifestation of leadership qualities, while traditional demographic parameters have no influence. The formation of a favorable organizational climate, targeted training programs for managers and the development of self-regulation skills increase the level of EI and, consequently, the effectiveness of management. It is recommended to integrate emotional competence training into professional development systems and expand research on the impact of EI on the performance of medical organizations.

emotional intelligence, leadership, anxiety, leader, manager.