Using Lean to Improve Wait Time Performance in Diagnostic Assessment for Lung Cancer

Cancer Care Ontario developed a diagnostic assessment program (DAP) to improve patients' experience in the diagnostic phase of their cancer journey and improve health system efficiency and effectiveness. The Stronach Regional Cancer Centre Lung DAP (at Southlake Regional Health Centre) used learnings from a Lean improvement event to increase capacity to meet patient demand for service and to achieve/improve upon the provincial wait time target from consultation to diagnosis for lung cancer patients (65% within 28 days), improving overall patient experience of care. Monthly patient volumes have increased by 65%, and wait time has improved by 60%.