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Although the application of Lean tools appears to be merely common sense, the concepts can be counter intuitive and are, oftentimes, very difficult to implement until an adequate knowledge base is formed and sufficient experience is acquired. It is highly advisable for a hospital just starting out on its Lean journey to employ the services of a consultant The organization should assign key people within the organization to work closely with the consultant and a plan should be put in place to transfer the consultant’s knowledge and experience to these individuals. Once these people have sufficient experience, the services of the consultant can be significantly reduced and eventually eliminated completely. Almost all lean consulting firms, and there are many, will claim to be experts in lean implementation. Some are, but many more are not. Regardless of an individual’s knowledge level relative to lean, experience in a hospital environment is essential for success.
A lean transformation consists of three levels:
- Level 1: Launch, train, and conduct guided events. A guided event is three to five days in duration, and at least one should be held each month. Phase 1 should last 9 to 12 months
- Level 2: The individuals who have been working with the consultant begin to facilitate fundamental lean events throughout the organization. During phase 2 the services of the consultant should only be required on a quarterly basis. Phase 2 can last anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
- Level 3: The hospital has developed a Lean culture and maintenance events are facilitated by in house experts. This final phase has no end, and the services of a consultant will be minimal.
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