Researchers explored the utility of the hybrid Lean Sigma Six process in improving clinical quality for joint replacement procedures at a Veterans Affairs medical center over a nearly three-year period. They measured length-of-stay and cost reductions derived from the VA Lean Sigma Six Model: VA-Vision-Analysis-Team-Aim-Map-Measure-Change-Sustain.
Areas of waste for elimination in the joint replacement process were identified by an interdisciplinary team composed of frontline staff, surgeons and executive management.
After the intervention’s implementation, length-of stay decreased 36 percent from 5.3 days to 3.4 days. Care outside of the VA hospital was completely eliminated, resulting in approximately $1 million in annual savings. In addition, patient volumes for total joint replacements increased.
The study concluded Lean Sigma Six is an appropriate framework under which to spearhead surgical quality improvement processes.
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