Lean Six Sigma Reduces Non-Value-Added Lab Tests for Acute Coronary Syndrome by 77% and Mortality by 20%

The CK-MB Test is a traditional blood test of a cardiac marker used to assist in the diagnosis of life-threatening acute coronary syndrome. Recent evidence shows that CK-MB testing adds no incremental benefit over troponin in such diagnostic assessments, although the two tests are frequently ordered together. The project objective was to optimize cardiac testing and patient care while reducing the volume of non-value-added CK-MB tests performed. This in turn would reduce per capita costs while maintaining quality and value for patients. A multidisciplinary Lean Six Sigma team comprised of emergency department, lab and cardiology staff sought to effectively reduce utilization of CK-MB testing without adversely impacting patient outcomes.

This case study is part of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association's annual Quality Excellence Achievement Awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals and health systems in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These organizations 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—and the Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement—safe, effective, patient centered, timely, efficient, and equitable. To learn more, visit https://www.ihaqualityawards.org/javascript-ui/IHAQualityAward/