Abstract
1131
Objectives: The Hoshin Kanri model is an effective conceptual tool for increasing efficiency and improving the flow of processes within a department or organization. The Hoshin Kanri model includes five goals or less and helps map out ideas to change, implement, and review. This model has been utilized in various medical department specialties including radiology. However, in nuclear medicine additional unique patient characteristics and working with radiotracers require particularly nuances.
Methods: We discuss how we instituted the Hoshin Kanri model to improve processes at our institution specifically in the nuclear medicine department.
Results: We discuss methods of how we involved all staff members and ways that we utilize this model in the nuclear medicine department to reduce inefficiencies. For example: 1) Instead of having standing orders of radiotracers on the weekend, we order radiotracers on an as needed basis. 2) Protocols are processed on a RIS website, and are done a week prior to the study so that changes can be made as needed. 3) Patients are called at least twice to remind them about their appointment times. 4) One instead of multiple IT intellispace systems are continuously updated to provide measurement tools for PET/CT. 5) Decreased turnaround times for both inpatient and outpatient studies with more streamlined methods of transport and cleaning equipment.
Conclusions: We discuss the utilization of the Hoshin Kanri model. Implementing the Hoshin Kanri model has helped improved processes and reduce waste at our institution’s nuclear medicine department.