Title: Lean implementation in the geriatric care sector in Sweden

Authors: Roy Andersson; Per Hilletofth; Olli-Pekka Hilmola

Addresses: Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, School of Engineering, Jönköping University, P.O. Box 1026, SE-551 11 Jönköping, Sweden ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, School of Engineering, Jönköping University, P.O. Box 1026, SE-551 11 Jönköping, Sweden ' Lappeenranta University of Technology, Kouvola Research Unit, Prikaatintie 9, FIN-45100 Kouvola, Finland

Abstract: The aim of this research is to examine how lean has been implemented in the geriatric care sector in a municipality in Sweden. The research focuses on implementation experiences and challenges encountered. The research method used is a case study using interviews and observations for data collection. The findings indicate that there are many advantages of lean in the geriatric care sector, such as better communication, organisation and workflow. The lean implementation worked as an eye-opener and created a situation, where the employees realised a great deal of waste in the daily operations. In addition, lean tools helped to reduce the waste. The findings also indicate that there are some challenges of lean in the geriatric care sector, such as the difficulty to create long-lasting lean commitment. A lack of follow-ups, decreasing interest from senior management and lack of a holistic view were the main issues in the case organisation.

Keywords: lean implementation; geriatric care; Sweden; continuous improvement; care management; organisational development; elderly; old people; communication; workflow; waste reduction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSCA.2015.070101

International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage, 2015 Vol.9 No.1, pp.56 - 71

Received: 28 Apr 2014
Accepted: 28 Apr 2015
Published online: 26 Jun 2015 *

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