Success Story: Implementing Six Sigma in Healthcare

How one hospital transformed patient care through process improvement

Published: January 25, 2024

Author: Maria Rodriguez, Healthcare Consultant

The Challenge

A major regional hospital was facing:

  • Long emergency department wait times
  • Declining patient satisfaction scores
  • Inefficient resource utilization
  • Rising operational costs

The Six Sigma Approach

Define Phase

  • Identified key stakeholders
  • Set project goals
  • Established metrics
  • Created project charter

Measure Phase

  • Collected baseline data
  • Mapped current processes
  • Identified bottlenecks
  • Measured wait times

Analyze Phase

  • Identified root causes
  • Analyzed patient flow
  • Evaluated resource allocation
  • Determined improvement opportunities

Improve Phase

  • Implemented triage optimization
  • Redesigned patient flow
  • Enhanced resource scheduling
  • Standardized procedures

Control Phase

  • Established monitoring systems
  • Created control plans
  • Trained staff on new procedures
  • Implemented regular reviews

Results Achieved

  • 40% reduction in wait times
  • 25% improvement in patient satisfaction
  • 15% increase in resource utilization
  • $2.5M annual cost savings

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