Lean thinking in a healthcare system – innovative roles
Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: This review article is based on an extensive literature search incorporating aspects of lean thinking in a healthcare setting. The rationale of the problem considered is seeking ways to minimise waste, improve effi ciency, and create a harmonious working environment within a health care setting. Five hospital specialities were utilised to emphasise the importance of cost-eff ectiveness of function. Healthcare organizations, through its doctors, nurses, radiographers, pharmacists and other allied professions, the need to be placed in the driving seat by applying equally powerful vectors of change, including choice or commissioning leading to improved patient care. Lean adds value to patient needs, identifi es the value stream for every patient group, ensures a continuous patient journey fl ow; pulls in response to the rate of demand of patients, manages toward perfection, and follows clearly defi ned steps for assessing patients via assessment, investigation, treatment and discharge. Just in Time, pull production, mistake proofi ng and six sigma are useful elements. Lean thinking, as a tool, is important strategically to eff ect a reduction in costs and achieve a high turnaround using the same staff and processes, but in a more eff ective manner. It requires strong, determined leadership to drive its successful implementation.
Authors: Ross Cooper, Charles Mohabeersingh
Institutions: Birmingham City University, University of Birmingham
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W341172733