The most dangerous kind of waste is the waste we do not recognize.” – Shigeo Shingo -
The philosophy behind lean is simple, continuous improvement with the removal of waste and inefficiencies. Lean is an ever-evolving philosophy based on proven principles and methods that incorporate a compilation of world-class practices to improve an organization through an evidence-based methodology. Lean focuses on the customer and adding value to the organization by using its employees, trained in the methodology, to achieve continuous improvement by redesigning processes to create a more efficient work environment.
Although the concept of Lean and its various tools come from the manufacturing industry (popularized by Toyota), Lean has been used in healthcare for nearly 20 years. Today, hundreds of health systems and hospitals successfully use Lean to increase efficiency and reduce waste. A few examples include: The Cleveland Clinic, Denver Health Medical Center, Virginia Mason MedicalCenter, Northwell Health, University of Michigan Medical Center, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Tudor Group teammembers have worked with and within numerous healthcare organizations on Lean initiatives including Barnabas Health, White Plains Hospital, SEIU1199 TEF, and the North Shore – LIJ Health System.
