For decades, the manufacturing industry has employed the Toyota Production System the most powerful production method in the world to reduce waste, improve quality, reduce defects and increase worker productivity. In 2001, Virginia Mason Medical Center, an integrated healthcare delivery system in Seattle, Washington set out to achieve its compe

Preface: A Surprising Visit. A New Idea. Journey to Japan. The Blue Yarn. Safety Crusade. Ambulatory Care Breakthrough. Transforming Procedural Care. Transforming Inpatient Care. Better, Faster, More Affordable. Management Method. The Journey Continues. Source Notes. Appendices.