Virginia Mason Medical Center Sets New Standard in Patient Safety Excellence
Becker's Hospital Review
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle has successfully implemented the Virginia Mason Production System, inspired by the Toyota Production System, over the last two decades, enhancing its focus on quality and safety. This approach has led the hospital to achieve 26 consecutive "A" safety grades from The Leapfrog Group, making it one of only 12 hospitals in the country to do so. The methodology emphasizes patient-centered care and continuous improvement, with training available through the Virginia Mason Institute. The integration of this system across Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has led to significant improvements in safety metrics, such as lower colorectal surgery infection rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative problem-solving among staff.