ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the just-in-time (JIT) system that is fundamental to providing Lean healthcare services and eliminating waste from healthcare processes. It explains why it is important and the benefits of JIT for the reader and their organization. The book also explains how JIT teams and cells are connected in a system called pull. Pull systems are defined and then contrasted with the typical push production systems used in healthcare. The book provides the basics of the kanban, or signaling, systems that are used to transform the continuum of care into a pull system. It describes several important techniques that support the smooth flow required for JIT in healthcare. These include the 5S system for workplace organization and standardization, visual management techniques, mistake proofing, quick setup methods, and healthcare performance measures that reinforce JIT.
