Lean Management: Inventory, Waste Management

In this chapter, we introduce the concept of lean management as it relates to ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). The main objectives of medical organizations, including ASCs, are compatible with the concepts of lean management. The practice management goals at ASCs mainly center on care that is more convenient for patients, with higher satisfaction and lower healthcare costs. Lean management aims to keep the items that add value while eliminating waste. We discuss different tools, such as Six Sigma and the 5S Method (sort, simplify, sweep, standardize, sustain), which can be effective for incorporating lean into ASCs. We list the seven wastes as related to ASCs with examples given and possible solutions discussed. Lean implementation is a time intensive and continuous improvement journey. It requires commitment from everyone in the enterprise. Application and implementation of lean principles and philosophies in ASC daily activities are essential to decrease waste, improve efficiency and quality, and ultimately lead to better and safer patient care.