Airedale NHS Trust celebrates Lean successes
The Lean Healthcare Academy, a standalone division of online training pioneer Virtual College, continues to make an impact across the healthcare sector, notably with its founding partner Airedale NHS Trust.
Airedale NHS Trust is fast becoming a “Lean machine” by eliminating wasteful practices.
During “NHS Innovation Week” (Apr 27-May 1), Sue Speak, Head of Lean Improvement at Airedale General Hospital, Steeton, reports that Lean principles – similar to those used widely in industry to simplify operational procedures and boost productivity – are paying major dividends and having a big impact on patient care.
She explained: “Over the past two years, the Trust has been developing its understanding of Lean and is beginning to reap the benefits in terms of waste reduction, improved quality and contribution to delivering our strategic objectives.”
Airedale NHS Trust became the founding partner of the Lean Healthcare Academy when it was established in 2006 to accelerate the adoption of Lean principles and methods in the healthcare sector.
The Lean Healthcare Academy has its own training facility on the main hospital site and provides support through a team of dedicated facilitators. The venture is underpinned by MEDIPEX, the NHS innovation hub for Yorkshire and the Humber.
Sue Speak said: “Major breakthroughs have been achieved in key operational areas at Airedale. During the past two years, we have embarked on over 70 Lean projects.
“In addition, 27 staff from all levels and areas of the hospital have become Lean ‘champions’ by gaining the NVQ level 2 Business Improvement Techniques (BIT) qualification, with 10 more in training. Three staff members have also now advanced to NVQ 3 level, with one more in training.
“These people are now leading on Lean implementation across the Trust to maximise the patient experience and reduce expenditure. Almost 500 staff members have received Lean training since January, 2007, and there can be no doubt that this has made a major impact – and a big difference – for both staff and patients.
“We must now look to further develop our capabilities, not just in applying Lean techniques to improve patient pathways, but also in capturing the financial benefits. We need to demonstrate to our staff, commissioners and members of the public the improved quality and productivity efficiencies we are realising, and ensure that our efforts are optimised.”
Adam Cairns, Chief Executive of Airedale NHS Trust, said: “By successfully adopting Lean procedures, we have been able not only to reduce waiting times, but also raise the safety, quality and delivery of our patient care.
“Moreover, this pioneering process of collaboration and co-operation has created solutions that are actually saving us both time and money that can be invested in other areas of patient care, a vital consideration as far as public perceptions are concerned.”
The Lean Healthcare Academy -
Lean Healthcare Academy Manager Wendy Gauntley said: “We have created a powerful and engaging solution to ensure rapid adoption of Lean techniques within the healthcare sector. It all began with Airedale NHS Trust and has been a remarkable journey.
“The Academy goes from strength to strength and we have achieved many successes with our partner trusts, all directly related to patient care and safety, or cost reduction within the NHS. Continuous improvement can and does lead to safer, more organised NHS facilities and there is little doubt that Lean does make a real difference for both patients and the public.”