Integration of Physicians into Lean/Six Sigma Performance Improvement Program via AMA PRA Category I-Accredited Executive White Belt Training Course

Recognizing the need to integrate physicians and other providers into its quality improvement program, Memorial Health System created an innovative training curriculum designed to educate physicians on Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniques while generating feedback and project suggestions. The course is four hours in duration and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine for 3.75 AMA PRA Category 1 credits.

Thirteen sessions have been held at Memorial Medical Center and The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, with 192 total attendees, including 133 physicians, 24 Memorial Health System executive leaders and 35 additional providers (PA, NP, etc.), all staying for the entire four hour session.

The course has generated numerous project ideas and has encouraged extensive physician participation on project teams such as hip fracture management, troponin turnaround time, reduction in OR waste and ED operating model redesign.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)