Experience of implementing lean thinking in an Indian healthcare institution

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to document the experience and impact of implementing lean thinking (LT) in an Indian healthcare institution. Design/methodology/approach A detailed review of literature documenting the experience of implementing LT in healthcare institutions is carried out. Review revealed that there is a dearth of documentation on implementation of LT in Indian healthcare institutions. To address this gap, the experience of implementing LT in an Indian case hospital is documented by adopting a single case study research methodology. Findings Lean practices adopted by the Indian case hospital are documented. Performance measures before and after implementation of lean practices in the case hospital are compared. Based on this experience, a framework for implementing LT is proposed for healthcare institutions. Research limitations/implications The current study documents the experience of an Indian case hospital, which is only at its initial stages of LT implementation. Future studies can be undertaken to assess the long-term impact of implementing LT in a healthcare institution. Similarly, the proposed framework for implementing LT can be validated by using the same in different healthcare institutions. Practical implications Review of lean principles, practices and performance measures discussed in the literature on implementing LT in healthcare institutions can act as a ready reckoner for practitioners. Framework proposed based on the experience of the case hospital is expected to guide healthcare practitioners in their lean journey. Originality/value This study is unique, as it documents the experience of implementing LT in an Indian healthcare institution and proposes a framework for implementing LT for future validation.