Six Sigma is a statistically based, process-focused approach to business improvement that companies such as, p Motorola, Allied-Signal, and General Electric have used to produce millions of dollars in bottom-line improvements. Six Sigma is a strategic approach that works across all processes, products, and industries including health care. The focus is on improving both customer satisfaction and the bottom-line. This presentation describes Six Sigma and shows how the methodology can be utilized in the improvement of the processes used to deliver health care. Questions concerning how Six Sigma is new and different, its importance and value, why it works, and required roles will be addressed. It is argued that Six Sigma is different and requires change on the part of everyone it touches including quality professionals. Examples are presented to illustrate the concepts and methods discussed.
