An open system approach to process reengineering in a healthcare operational environment.

The objective of this study is to examine the applicability of process reengineering in a healthcare operational environment. The intake process of a mental healthcare service delivery system is analyzed systematically to identify process-related problems. A methodology which utilizes an open system orientation coupled with process reengineering is utilized to overcome operational and patient related problems associated with the pre-reengineered intake process. The systematic redesign of the intake process resulted in performance improvements in terms of cost, quality, service and timing.