Basics of Lean and Six Sigma: Fundamental Tools for Health Care Providers

Continuous process improvement at the front lines of care is critical to providing compassionate, high-value care to our patients and their families within our ever-changing health care landscapes. This article aims to serve as a high-level, non-MBA primer on the concepts of Lean and Six Sigma process improvement techniques that can be used to change how individual practices deliver care. By improving the efficiency of the care delivery systems within our office practices, we can enhance patient experience, provide high-value care, improve financial performance, reduce burnout, and bolster work-life balance.