Applying Quality Improvement Techniques to Medical Practice

The article details how Lansing Ophthalmology, a large Michigan-based ophthalmology practice, applied Lean and Six Sigma principles—commonly used in automotive manufacturing—to improve patient care and operational efficiency. With guidance from AIAG and OMNEX Inc., the clinic conducted a data-driven analysis of patient flow, identifying significant variability in wait times and care processes. Key problems included inconsistent technician performance, unpredictable patient arrival times, and patient bottlenecks outside doctors’ offices.

By instituting new policies, such as adhering to scheduled appointment times, standardizing technician training, and creating a queuing system, the clinic significantly reduced patient wait times and operational inefficiencies. The changes enabled the clinic to handle increased demand with minimal additional staff, achieving smoother patient flow and improved staff-to-doctor ratios.

Read the article to learn more about how these quality improvement techniques transformed healthcare operations.