Using Lean Six Sigma to Increase the Effectiveness of an Evidence-Based Quality Improvement Program

Area of Science:

• Healthcare quality improvement
• Nursing practice innovation
• Organizational change management

Background:

• Evidence-based quality improvement (EBQI) is a recognized method for enhancing healthcare quality and safety.
• EBQI programs often face challenges in overcoming organizational barriers to implementing practice changes.
• A specific EBQI program in an orthopedic hospital identified frequent implementation hurdles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To integrate Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles into an existing EBQI program.
• To address and overcome organizational barriers encountered during quality improvement project implementation.
• To enhance the effectiveness of EBQI by incorporating LSS strategies.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles, tools, and strategies into the EBQI framework.
• Implementation of LSS interventions including stakeholder alignment, process analysis, and change management.
• Utilizing project management, structured check-ins, mentoring, and organizational recognition to support implementation.

Main Results:

• EBQI project leaders gained new tools through LSS for securing executive support and resources.
• LSS principles facilitated overcoming organizational inertia, leading to more effective practice changes.
• The integration enhanced the ability to navigate and surmount implementation barriers.

Conclusions:

• Lean Six Sigma (LSS) significantly enhances the effectiveness of evidence-based quality improvement (EBQI) programs.
• Combining LSS with EBQI provides a robust framework for successful healthcare quality initiatives.
• This integrated approach empowers project leaders to drive meaningful practice change.