Sun Country Health Region's executive director of the Kaizen promotion office provided the board of directors with an update on Lean training within the region during their Sept. 24 meeting in Weyburn.
Chris McKee said his team had conducted two rapid process workshops in Estevan and Weyburn to reduce surgical wait times and they had rolled out five regional sessions on supply management and traffic.
McKee noted that 45 senior leaders came in to meet with a Japanese sensei and to receive additional training on efficient and effective management as part of the provincially-led mandate.
During his presentation, McKee noted major improvements had been witnessed in inventory management and controls since Lean was implemented over two years ago. He explained how the triggers worked in the supply chain for back up supplies which has reduced the time taken for ordering supplies and ensuring the proper volume of supplies are on hand.
He said he expected to be able to deliver accelerated improvements ahead of schedule by introducing one of the most aggressive training and pick up schedules in the province.
McKee noted that the chain of training includes patients and families and, if they aren't included in any session, then it does not proceed.
On the supply management side, it was pointed out that it was imperative for employees to know what supplies are needed and when they are needed.
"I expect to be delivering the last of the basic workshops by March, 2015," McKee said.
New staff members will then be introduced to Lean through individual or group sessions as required.
Board member Audrey Trombley asked how new employees will be trained going forward after that date and McKee said new staff members will be scheduled on Wednesdays each week for a five-day training rotation that will include employees returning to the workforce after an extended absence.
John Knoch, vice-president of corporate and finance, said one example of realized efficiencies was the saving of about $6,000 on previously overstocked items. He said he expected more financial efficiencies will be realized over time.
McKee completed his presentation by referring the directors to a prepared Lean leader training schedule and management track training, a pilot program for the region. A third wave of training will be focused on building a curriculum to allow employees to gain a higher level of understanding of Lean as to "why we are there and why it's important," with regards to this sustainable venture.
Board chairwoman, Marilyn Charlton thanked McKee for the update and noted the aggressive agenda that had been set for the completion of the basic training throughout the region.
