The implementation of Lean thinking in reducing waste, streamlining clinical processes, improving clinical access, efficiency and consumer outcomes in Queensland regional, rural and remote mental health services

Mental health has become a high priority for many countries, including Australia, due to the increasing number of mental health consumers presenting for treatment. The increase in service demand is not being matched with availability of resources world-wide. In line with the current health blue print document that emphasises the need for efficiencies, mental health service managers are under pressure to streamline processes so that consumers will continue to receive the same quality of care despite reduction in funding. A plethora of research demonstrates that business principles are being employed successfully in healthcare organisations; for example, in emergency departments, to improve quality of care, safety of consumers, efficiency in consumer flows, and admission and discharge processes. However, there is a noticeable paucity of research studies conducted in mental health with regards to applying contemporary business principles to reduce waste. This study follows Creswell’s convergent mixed methods design to explore the Lean-inspired improvement efforts in regional, rural and remote Central Queensland mental health services. Several Lean thinking tools were used to ascertain applicability in mental health services in relation to effectiveness in reducing waste and improving mental health consumer outcomes.