Wanted in health care: Lean experts with a broad perspective

Abstract

Aim: To reflect on Lean experts' perspective on components of Lean management in health care and its implications for practice. Background: The involvement of Lean experts is one of the key succes factors of a sustainable Lean transformation in health care. Methods: Thirteen Lean experts participated in two focus groups. They all had experience in the implementation of Lean in healthcare organizations. Results: Lean experts all seem to have a unique perspective on Lean management in health care. Experts without a healthcare degree appear to focus more on the entire management system, where experts with a nursing degree seem to concentrate more on the soft Lean principles. Conclusion: It seems plausible their professional background appears to have an influence. Implications for Nursing Management: In selecting a Lean expert, nurse managers may want to gauge what elements the Lean expert tends to emphasize. It seems plausible to opt for a Lean expert without a healthcare degree to accomplish the Lean transformation as they have a broader view on Lean. It may also be useful for managers to involve several Lean experts, all with complementary perspectives and backgrounds.