What does LEAN management focus on in healthcare?

LEAN management in healthcare focuses on enhancing processes by eliminating waste and improving efficiency. This approach is rooted in the idea of maximizing value for patients while minimizing the resources, time, and effort required in the delivery of care. By identifying and removing non-value-added activities, healthcare providers can streamline operations, reduce delays, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

In practical terms, this might involve re-evaluating workflows, reducing unnecessary steps in processes, and implementing best practices that prioritize patient safety and satisfaction. The goal is to create a system that not only serves patients better but also uses resources more effectively, leading to improved overall healthcare delivery.

The other options, such as increasing costs, creating additional steps, and promoting individual performance over teamwork, contradict the core principles of LEAN management, which seeks to optimize efficiency and foster collaborative improvement in healthcare settings.