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Frederick S. Southwick, MD

Lean or Toyota Production System (TPS) is responsible for revolutionizing the auto industry by creating highly reliable and safe cars and trucks. In this course healthcare providers, administrators, engineers, and healthcare professional students will be taught how to apply the principles and tools of Lean to health care. They will learn how to identify and remove of waste, design standardized work, apply 5S, map Value streams, create process maps, conduct rapid improvement events (RIEs), level workflow, use A3 forms and Paredo charts, apply error proofing, and create effective visual controls. The instructional videos minimize Lean technical language, and include patient cases to make the lessons more appealing to students in healthcare. Acknowledging that patients are very different from cars we have carefully adapted Lean to health care and call our system: Patient-centered Healthcare Delivery System (PHDS). The name and abbreviation emphasize two key principles taught in our course: 1. Just like PhDs the scientific method must be continually applied when creating plans to improve our systems of care. 2. All improvements must be made looking through the eyes of patients. Armed with this new knowledge students will be able to design and implement sustainable healthcare delivery system improvements.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Applying TPS or Lean to Healthcare
Toyota Production System (TPS) or Lean has allowed Toyota to become the number one automobile manufacturer in the world by progressively improving the quality and reliability of their products. The System of Profound Knowledge developed by the American, W. Edward Deming is the basis for TPS or Lean. This system has now been adapted to healthcare by Virginia Mason Medical Center and Denver Health with exciting results. You will be introduced to the 4 principles of TPS, as well as the TPS House that illustrates how the various tools of TPS fit together to continually add value to the care of patients. The challenges faced by both health systems will be discussed and their approaches to transforming their delivery systems described. When Lean is applied to healthcare, patient care improves, and both patient mortality and the cost of care decrease. Applying Lean to healthcare systems can revolutionize how healthcare is delivered.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines applying TPS or Lean system to healthcare, which is an emerging field with the potential to improve patient safety and quality of care
Develops foundational Lean tools and methodologies, such as identifying and removing waste, designing standardized work, and mapping value streams, which is critical for aspiring healthcare leaders and practitioners
Taught by Frederick S. Southwick, MD, a recognized expert in Lean healthcare and author of several books on the topic, who is well-suited to teach this subject matter with credibility
Provides practical guidance on how to eliminate errors, improve processes, and increase efficiency in healthcare settings, which may lead to improved patient outcomes
Designed for healthcare professionals, including providers, administrators, engineers, and students, who are interested in improving healthcare delivery systems
Requires familiarity with basic healthcare concepts and practices, which may be a limiting factor for learners new to the field

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Reviews summary

Applying lean principles to healthcare delivery

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in applying Lean/TPS principles specifically adapted for healthcare settings. Reviewers find the content highly relevant to their professional roles, offering practical tools and strategies like Value Stream Mapping, A3 forms, and error proofing that can be immediately applied to improve patient care and efficiency. The use of healthcare-specific examples and the focus on a patient-centered approach are frequently highlighted as strengths. While the course is titled 'Advanced Lean', some students felt it serves more as a comprehensive introduction rather than a deep dive into complex optimization techniques, suggesting it's beneficial for beginners or those new to Lean in healthcare.
Offers a strong introduction to Lean in healthcare.
"Provided a very clear and concise overview of Lean principles and tools in healthcare."
"As someone new to Lean, this course gave me an excellent starting point."
"It covers all the essential concepts needed to begin implementing process improvements."
"The course lays a strong groundwork for understanding waste, standardized work, and flow."
Explanations are easy to follow.
"The instructors explain potentially complex topics in a clear and easy-to-understand manner."
"Videos were well-structured and broke down concepts effectively."
"I didn't find the technical language overwhelming thanks to the clear explanations."
"The logical flow of the modules helped build understanding progressively."
Tailored well for healthcare professionals.
"The healthcare examples and patient cases made the Lean concepts much more understandable and relatable."
"Appreciated how the course adapted traditional Lean for the unique challenges of healthcare."
"It's great to have a course focused specifically on our industry, using language and scenarios we understand."
"The Patient-centered Healthcare Delivery System (PHDS) framework is a useful adaptation."
Provides tools applicable to healthcare roles.
"I found the concepts and tools discussed to be immediately applicable to my work in hospital administration."
"Learning about Value Stream Mapping and A3 forms gave me concrete ways to analyze and improve processes."
"This course equipped me with practical strategies for waste reduction that I could implement from day one."
"I feel much more confident in applying Lean principles to solve real-world problems in healthcare delivery."
May feel introductory for some learners.
"While good, the course felt more like an introduction than 'Advanced Lean' as the title suggests."
"I was hoping for a deeper dive into more complex scenarios or advanced statistical tools."
"Could use more in-depth case studies or hands-on practice with the tools beyond the basics."
"It's a great overview, but learners looking for advanced optimization might need supplementary material."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0: Advanced Lean with these activities:
Review Healthcare Waste
Begin this course with a working understanding of healthcare waste to get the most out of the content
Show steps
  • Review the forms of waste most commonly seen in healthcare
  • Summarize 5S to reduce waste in your own healthcare setting
Standardized Work
Complete a project that tests out the principles of standardized work
Show steps
  • Select a process in your work area
  • Identify the steps in the process
  • Develop a standardized work document
  • Train the staff on the standardized work document
  • Monitor the process and make improvements as needed
Diagnostic Simulations
Gain deeper understanding through collaborative simulations and discussions
Show steps
  • Form small groups of students
  • Assign each group a specific diagnostic scenario
  • Have the groups use the principles of error proofing to simulate the diagnostic process
  • Facilitate discussions within the groups about the challenges and successes experienced during the simulations
  • Encourage the groups to share their insights and lessons learned with the larger class
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Workflow Leveling
Takes what you've learned about error proofing and visual controls and apply them to real world examples
Browse courses on Lean
Show steps
  • Identify a bottleneck in your work process
  • Develop a plan to use leveling to increase productivity
TPS or Lean for Healthcare
Attend an immersive workshop with healthcare providers and industry experts to learn how to apply the principles of TPS or Lean
Browse courses on Lean
Show steps
  • Research and identify TPS or Lean for Healthcare workshops
  • Attend a workshop that aligns with your learning goals
  • Actively participate in the workshop exercises and discussions
  • Network with other healthcare professionals and industry experts
  • Develop a plan for implementing TPS or Lean principles within your organization
Value Stream Map
Creates a detailed report on the different ways these methods can be used in practice
Show steps
  • Select a workflow within your healthcare organization
  • Document the workflow using process mapping
  • Identify any areas where waste and inefficiency occur
  • Determine the root causes of these inefficiencies
  • Develop recommendations for systems and process improvements
Patient Centered Healthcare Delivery System
Learn how to implement PHDS and leverage its advantages
Browse courses on Lean
Show steps
  • Research the principles of Patient Centered Healthcare Delivery System
  • Identify opportunities to implement PHDS within your organization
  • Develop a plan for implementing PHDS
  • Implement PHDS and monitor its impact on patient outcomes

Career center

Learners who complete Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0: Advanced Lean will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators play a key role in the planning, directing, coordinating, and budgeting of healthcare services. As a graduate of the Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course, you are equipped with knowledge in areas such as waste reduction, standardized work, and value stream mapping. These skills are highly applicable in healthcare administration, as they can help you improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery systems. By understanding and implementing the principles of Lean, you will be better prepared to make data-driven decisions that can improve patient care and reduce costs.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants provide expert advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a wide range of issues, including strategic planning, operational improvement, and financial management. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as a Healthcare Consultant. You will learn how to identify and address challenges in healthcare delivery, develop and implement solutions, and communicate effectively with clients. With your expertise in Lean principles, you will be able to help healthcare organizations improve their quality of care and reduce their costs.
Quality Improvement Specialist
Quality Improvement Specialists are responsible for developing and implementing quality improvement initiatives in healthcare settings. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to identify and measure quality problems, develop and implement interventions, and evaluate the effectiveness of your efforts. By applying the principles of Lean, you can help healthcare organizations improve the quality of care they provide and reduce their costs.
Healthcare Operations Manager
Healthcare Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities. They oversee a wide range of activities, including patient care, staffing, and financial management. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to manage a complex healthcare operation, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. By applying the principles of Lean, you will be able to create a more efficient and effective healthcare system.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close out projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals, develop project plans, and track progress. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to manage a project effectively, identify and mitigate risks, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. By applying the principles of Lean, you will be able to complete projects on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.
Healthcare Data Analyst
Healthcare Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to collect and analyze data, identify trends, and develop recommendations for improvement. By applying the principles of Lean, you will be able to help healthcare organizations make data-driven decisions that can improve patient care and reduce costs.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Lean Six Sigma Black Belts are experts in the field of process improvement. They use a variety of tools and techniques to identify and eliminate waste in processes. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. You will learn how to apply Lean Six Sigma principles to healthcare processes, identify and eliminate waste, and improve the quality of care. With your expertise in Lean Six Sigma, you can help healthcare organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
Healthcare IT Manager
Healthcare IT Managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and maintenance of healthcare information technology systems. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to manage a healthcare IT system, implement new technologies, and ensure the security of patient data. As the healthcare industry becomes increasingly reliant on technology, the demand for Healthcare IT Managers is expected to grow. By taking this course, you will be well-prepared to meet this demand.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design, improve, and install integrated systems of people, materials, information, equipment, and energy. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to apply industrial engineering principles to healthcare processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. As the healthcare industry becomes increasingly complex, the demand for Industrial Engineers is expected to grow. By taking this course, you will be well-prepared to meet this demand.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical methods to solve problems in a variety of industries, including healthcare. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to apply operations research techniques to healthcare problems, develop models, and make recommendations for improvement. As the healthcare industry becomes increasingly complex, the demand for Operations Research Analysts is expected to grow. By taking this course, you will be well-prepared to meet this demand.
Physician
Physicians provide medical care to patients. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and provide patient care. While a medical degree is required to practice as a Physician, this course may be helpful for those who are interested in a career in medicine and want to learn more about the principles of healthcare delivery.
Nurse
Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. You will learn how to assess patients, administer medications, and provide patient care. While a nursing degree is required to practice as a Nurse, this course may be helpful for those who are interested in a career in nursing and want to learn more about the principles of healthcare delivery.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications to patients and provide information about their use. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course may be of interest to those who are considering a career as a Pharmacist. You will learn about the principles of healthcare delivery and how to improve the efficiency of medication dispensing.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants perform a variety of tasks in a healthcare setting, including taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, and assisting with procedures. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course may be of interest to those who are considering a career as a Medical Assistant. You will learn about the principles of healthcare delivery and how to improve the efficiency of patient care.
Healthcare Aide
Healthcare Aides provide assistance to patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. The Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0 course may be of interest to those who are considering a career as a Healthcare Aide. You will learn about the principles of healthcare delivery and how to improve the quality of patient care.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fixing Healthcare Delivery 2.0: Advanced Lean.
Classic in the field of lean management and provides a comprehensive overview of the Toyota Production System (TPS). It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the principles and tools of lean.
Provides a detailed look at the Toyota Production System and how it has been implemented at Toyota. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the practical application of lean principles.
Provides a comprehensive overview of lean principles and how they can be applied to healthcare. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the benefits of lean in healthcare.
Provides a step-by-step guide to value stream mapping, a powerful tool for identifying and eliminating waste in healthcare processes. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery.
Classic in the field of lean manufacturing and provides a detailed look at the Toyota Production System. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the principles and tools of lean.
Provides a quick reference guide to 100 lean and Six Sigma tools. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about these tools and how they can be applied to improve quality and productivity.
Provides a practical guide to implementing kaizen, a continuous improvement process, in healthcare organizations. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery.

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