Introduction

Lean Six Sigma is a powerful methodology that combines the principles of Lean (focused on eliminating waste) and Six Sigma (focused on reducing variability and defects) to improve processes, enhance quality, and increase efficiency. In healthcare, where patient safety, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are paramount, Lean Six Sigma offers a structured approach to driving meaningful improvements. This training course is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge, tools, and techniques needed to implement Lean Six Sigma in their organizations. Through a blend of theoretical insights, practical applications, and real-world case studies, participants will learn to lead process improvement initiatives that deliver measurable results.

Objectives

By the end of this 5-day training course, participants will:

1. Understand the principles and methodologies of Lean and Six Sigma and their application in healthcare.

2. Learn to identify and eliminate waste, reduce variability, and improve process efficiency.

3. Develop skills to lead Lean Six Sigma projects using the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework.

4. Gain insights into the tools and techniques used in Lean Six Sigma, such as value stream mapping, root cause analysis, and statistical process control.

5. Explore strategies for engaging teams and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

6. Build proficiency in measuring and sustaining process improvements.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Healthcare executives and administrators

• Clinical leaders, including physicians and nurses

• Quality improvement and process improvement professionals

• Healthcare consultants and advisors

• Professionals involved in healthcare operations and efficiency initiatives

• Students and recent graduates in healthcare management or related fields

Advanced Outline

Day 1: Foundations of Lean Six Sigma in Healthcare

• Morning Session:

  • Introduction to Lean Six Sigma: Key Concepts and Importance in Healthcare

  • The Evolution of Lean and Six Sigma: From Manufacturing to Healthcare

  • Case Study: Successful Lean Six Sigma Implementation in a Hospital

• Afternoon Session:

  • The DMAIC Framework: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control

  • Tools for Identifying Waste and Inefficiencies: Value Stream Mapping and 5S

  • Interactive Workshop: Applying Value Stream Mapping to a Healthcare Process

Day 2: Define and Measure Phases

• Morning Session:

  • Define Phase: Identifying Problems, Setting Goals, and Engaging Stakeholders

  • Tools for Defining Projects: Project Charters and SIPOC Diagrams

  • Case Study: Defining a Lean Six Sigma Project in a Clinic Setting

• Afternoon Session:

  • Measure Phase: Collecting and Analyzing Baseline Data

  • Tools for Measurement: Process Mapping, Data Collection Plans, and Basic Statistics

  • Group Activity: Collecting and Analyzing Data for a Healthcare Process

Day 3: Analyze and Improve Phases

• Morning Session:

  • Analyze Phase: Identifying Root Causes of Problems

  • Tools for Root Cause Analysis: Fishbone Diagrams, Pareto Charts, and Hypothesis Testing

  • Case Study: Analyzing Root Causes of Patient Wait Times in an Emergency Department

• Afternoon Session:

  • Improve Phase: Developing and Testing Solutions

  • Tools for Improvement: Brainstorming, Pilot Testing, and Design of Experiments (DOE)

  • Interactive Workshop: Designing and Testing a Process Improvement Solution

Day 4: Control Phase and Sustaining Improvements

• Morning Session:

  • Control Phase: Ensuring Long-Term Success of Improvements

  • Tools for Control: Control Charts, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Dashboards

  • Case Study: Sustaining Improvements in a Surgical Unit

• Afternoon Session:

  • Strategies for Engaging Teams and Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement

  • Tools for Training and Educating Staff on Lean Six Sigma Principles

  • Group Activity: Developing a Control Plan for a Lean Six Sigma Project

Day 5: Advanced Tools and Future Trends

• Morning Session:

  • Advanced Lean Six Sigma Tools: Statistical Process Control (SPC), Regression Analysis, and More

  • The Role of Technology in Lean Six Sigma: AI, Automation, and Data Analytics

  • Case Study: Leveraging Technology for Process Improvement in a Healthcare Organization

• Afternoon Session:

  • Emerging Trends: Lean Six Sigma in Telehealth, Genomics, and Personalized Medicine

  • Final Group Project: Presenting a Comprehensive Lean Six Sigma Initiative

  • Course Recap, Certification, and Next Steps for Continued Learning