Applying the lean principles to improve the organ donation-transplantation process

Claudia Affonso Silva Araujo, Clarissa Gussen, Marina Martins Siqueira and Luis Antonio da Rocha Dib

International Journal of Services and Operations Management, 2024, vol. 49, issue 4, 522-538

Abstract: Despite advancements, there are persistent inefficiencies in organ donation-transplantation (ODT) processes and an increasing need for donated organs worldwide. The lean philosophy is particularly noteworthy among the management approaches pursuing greater efficiency. It has been applied to several fields, including health services, but not extensively explored within transplantation activities. This study examines the applicability of lean principles to improve ODT processes in Brazil. A multiple case study was conducted in three Brazilian state transplant centres with greater transplantation volume. The findings suggest overall alignment between procedures adopted by the transplant centres and lean thinking practices. For example, the lean principle of process' fluidity is assured through strengthened relationships with involved parties, decentralised decision-making, teams sized accordingly to local requirements, and practitioners provided with all necessary work tools. In light of the results, the lean ODT coordination model is proposed, and several initiatives to increase the supply of organs are presented.

Keywords: lean principles; lean thinking; organ donation; organ transplantation; organ donation-transplantation process; Brazil. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ids:ijsoma:v:49:y:2024:i:4:p:522-538

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