Patient Process Flow Improvement: Value Stream Mapping

Abstract

Value stream mapping (VSM) is one of a lean technique and a preferred tool to visualize and understand a process flow that involves process mapping technique. VSM is drawn as pictures of processes with the purpose of identifying the flow of work, information, as well as understanding the structure of departments. It helps to reduce waste and lead time in delivery service and even support the administration and management. The application of VSM in Malaysia healthcare is still in early stage. The crucial issue concerned is the long waiting time faced by patient. Therefore, the objective of this study is to improve the process flow of patient by reducing lead time and waste. This study focuses on applying VSM in clinic which involve quantitative data collection. The result provides clear evidence in reducing the lead time and waste by using VSM which has been proposed in the future state map.