Less is for More: Lean Cataract Surgery Care Path
Care Process & Redesign
Workforce Transformation
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National Healthcare Group
31 December 2020
To reduce surgery cancellations, improve patient safety, reduce patient costs, and optimize manpower. Lean workflows optimize resource use, improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance patient satisfaction.
Year Submitted: 2020
Published Date: 31 December 2020
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Workforce Transformation, Quality Improvement, Lean Methodology, Value Based Care, Safe Care, Productivity, Cost Saving, Utilisation, Job Redesign, Workflow Redesign, Time Saving, Access To Care, Waiting Time, Turnaround Time, Patient Satisfaction
About this Content
Aims
To reduce surgery cancellations, improve patient safety, reduce patient costs, and optimize manpower.
Background
Conventional processes for cataract surgeries were inefficient, costly, and posed delays for patients.
Methods
Lean 6-Sigma methodology (DMAIC), streamlined pre-op assessments, removal of PPAD, optimized workflows, and nurse-led discharge processes.
Results
Reduced lead time from 1 month to 2 weeks; cost savings per patient: $85.40; reduced turnaround time by 16 minutes per patient; 261 nursing hours saved annually; pharmacy trips reduced by 83%.
Conclusion
Lean workflows optimize resource use, improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance patient satisfaction.
Lessons Learnt
Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement were key.
Keywords
Care Redesign, Workforce Transformation, Quality Improvement, Lean Six-Sigma, Process Mapping, Cost Savings, Time Savings, Ophthalmology, Pre-Operative Care, Nurse-Led Care.
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Khoo Teck Puat Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Ophthalmology, Surgery |
Project Lead(s) | Yip Chee Chew |
Project Member(s) | Lai Foon Wan |
Connect with this contributor!
Adj A/Prof Yip Chee Chew - yip.chee.chew@ktph.com.sg