Apollo 11: an experiential model for team-based transformational change

Transformational change, or reengineering, is a tough assignment for any organization. The pay-off, however, can be huge: happier patients, reenergized staff, and increased productivity. This article describes the team-based Apollo 11 project at Southeast Health Center in Indianapolis. Although this redesign effort took 7 months of extraordinary team effort, it resulted in a 54% reduction in patient encounter time, a decrease of more than 40% in per-visit cost, and improved patient and staff satisfaction. This article summarizes the background and dynamics of Apollo 11, shares some initial project results, and summarizes the lessons learned, so that other healthcare organizations can successfully tackle the reengineering challenge.