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Understanding the Difference: Lean Project vs. QAPI Goal

Understanding the Difference: Lean Project vs. QAPI Goal

Think of Lean Projects and QAPI Goals as the dynamic duo of quality improvement – they work together, but they each have their own superpowers.

A Lean Project jumps in like a superhero to fix a specific problem quickly and make processes smoother. Meanwhile, a QAPI Goal is more like a seasoned coach, keeping an eye on the big picture over time to make sure everything stays on track.

Knowing the difference helps you play your part – whether you’re part of a fast-action Lean team or a data-watching QAPI pro. Let’s dive into how they work!


Lean Project

A Lean Project is a short-term, focused effort to:

  1. Fix a specific process problem.

  2. Reduce waste or delays.

  3. Make work easier and more efficient.

IT HAS:

  • A clear problem to solve.

  • A start and end point.

  • Action steps and testing.

EXAMPLE:

"We notice check-in is taking too long. We will work on a plan to cut the time down to 5 minutes or less."

QAPI Goal

A QAPI Goal is an ongoing plan to:

  1. Monitor important outcomes over time.

  2. Track data regularly.

  3. Make sure we are consistently meeting standards.

IT HAS:

  • Long-term monitoring.

  • Regular reports and discussions.

  • A focus on trends and improvements.

EXAMPLE:

"We want patient falls to stay below 2 per month, so we will check fall data every month."


QAPI & Lean Work Together

QAPI might spot a problem; a Lean project helps fix the problem; then QAPI keeps monitoring to make sure the fix works over time.

Quick Tip: When you're working on a Lean Project, you are part of a team making a change. When you're helping with a QAPI Goal, you are watching the data to keep the goal on track.

 


Dr. Angie Schierer

About the Author

Dr. Angie Schierer is an accomplished C-suite executive consultant specializing in rural healthcare administration. With a robust background in operations, quality, process improvement, and team development, she thrives on tackling new challenges and leading diverse teams through transformational growth and innovative thinking.


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