Leading Lean: A Canadian Healthcare Leader's Guide
Author: Fine, Benjamin A.
This article, from the journal Healthcare Quarterly, is a practical overview and introduction to lean principles in healthcare. With examples and data compiled from interviews with five Canadian hospitals, the piece emphasizes a number of key points, including: 1) You can get started with lean by spending a few hours observing work and identifying waste; 2) A combination of executive support and outside Lean expertise is an important mix; 3) The lean expertise must come in the form of teaching to ensure that the Lean process is sustainable once the consultant leaves; 4) Engage physicians and staff by focusing on "what's in it for them?"; 5) Alleviate staff fears about the word "lean" by promising "no layoffs as a result of lean." (note: fee required to view entire article)
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