Analysis of the COPD Pathway: Lean, Agile and Leagility

Abstract

This chapter presents case research on the design of a long-term respiratory condition, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), patient pathway. The case draws on the design of a service which spans three hospital sites and two commissioning groups in the UK. From conducting observations, focus groups, validation workshops and interviews with healthcare professionals, patients and relatives, the qualitative thematic analysis enables a detailed picture of existing services to be compiled. We provide illustrations of the current COPD pathway and sub-processes within the pathway, identifying patient, information, resource and emotional flows. We identify points in the pathway where lean, agile and leagility influence or may improve the design of the COPD patient pathway being studied.