TOCICO

The presentation outline includes: Understanding the core problem in healthcare systems; criteria against which any solution should be judged; the theory of constraints (TOC); and bring pride and joy back into the hearts of healthcare workers. The core problem relates to costs rising much faster than revenues throughout the world. In this predicament, the ability to do more with current resources answers a significant need. Any solution must simultaneously: Increase the quality and timeliness of care; improve the affordability of care; without simply asking staff to work harder; and bring pride and joy back into the heart of everyone working in the health system. The theory of constraints (TOC) provides the basis of a simultaneous breakthrough in the quality and timeliness of care and the financial performance of the healthcare system. The four pillars of TOC (inherent simplicity, every conflict can be removed; people are good; and never say I know) and the four concepts of flow are discussed with respect to healthcare. Typical results of acute, community, children’s, mental health hospitals and in the community setting are: Length of stay reductions of 20% - 50%; more patients treated within current resources; improved quality of care; improved staff morale; and improved access to care. Additional detailed results are provided. Alex explains an example showing the impact of a reduction on length of stay on number of patients serviced and throughput.