We conducted an operational improvement project at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare (TMH), a private, not-for-profit community healthcare system serving the Big Bend region. Our project focused on improving the efficiency of TMH’s stretcher storage and repair process to reduce equipment downtime and increase stretcher availability across clinical units.
Through direct observation, stakeholder interviews, and process mapping, we identified key sources of waste, including inconsistent damage tagging, disorganized storage areas, unclear ownership, and communication breakdowns between departments. We applied Lean Six Sigma tools to evaluate the existing workflow and isolate the primary contributors to delays and operational inefficiencies.
We streamlined communication, standardized reporting procedures, and enhanced the organization of the repair and storage system. These interventions reduce non-value-added activities and enhanced operational efficiency. The improvements support more reliable equipment availability and strengthened patient care delivery by ensuring that critical mobility assets are accessible to clinical staff when needed.