Question

identify a cost or quality management model (e.g., LEAN). Describe the model and what you like and/or do not like about the model. How can you apply it in your field of work (healthcare organization)? please 300 words

Answer 1

Solution –

Kaizen is a quality and productivity management methodology. Kaizen is a Japanese tool which stands for improvement. In business world Kaizen is looked upon as a framework for continuous improvement in all business processes. The main motive of applying Kaizen is elimination of waste. There are majorly two aspects to Kaizen –

1. Flow Kaizen – This is related to the flow of materials, information and other units critical to the operations of an organization. Flow Kaizen relates to reorganization of the whole production system.
2. Process Kaizen – This is related to optimizing the individual work units. Process Kaizen discusses the way a particular process is carried out.

Kaizen is a continuous process and does not follow a structure which suffers from lags. Kaizen speaks about small improvements and not disruptions. But all the improvements are aligned to the whole process which can lead to major effects on business. The point to be noted here is that both Flow and Process Kaizen are used in sync though usually Process Kaizen is more prevalent.

Usage of Kaizen in Healthcare Industry

Healthcare is a competitive industry. The ever reducing budgets and the increasing demand and expectations of the clients has put the healthcare industry under the efficiency scanner. Kaizen can be implemented as a culture. The usages of Kaizen in this industry can be as follows –

1. Effective utilization of resources – Keeping a check on how the resources are being managed. For instance proper allocation of work so that the skilled staff is not used for unskilled work.
2. Increasing Safety Measures - This can be achieved by educating the staff and highlighting safety glitches so that they can be avoided. The process of setting up safety measures is also a way to increase the safety quotient.
3. Improving Organization – Improve efficiencies at all levels such as in medicine stores for improving the client experience and building a positive vibe in the whole organization.
4. Workflow Management - This can be done so that waste at all levels is eliminated. Usually the waiting time for the client can be eliminated to improve productivity.