Lean Methodology Applied in Pathological Anatomy: A Perspective in the Cuban Context

Abstract

Introduction: Anatomical Pathology is a diagnostic medical specialty that requires materials and technological resources to process biological samples. In Cuba, a country facing a technological, economic, and financial crisis, these laboratories must improve efficiency to ensure quality care. The Lean methodology has been successfully applied in the health sector, but its current state of application in Anatomical Pathology laboratories, both globally and in Cuba, remains unknown.

Objective: This literature review aims to analyze the current state of Lean methodology application in Anatomical Pathology laboratories, with an emphasis on Cuba, in order to fill an academic gap and serve as a basis for future research and implementation.

Method: We conducted a systematic review of available literature, including academic articles, case studies, and official and technical documents published in Spanish and English, prioritizing Spanish-language literature to capture regional and Cuban scientific output. The review focused on publications from the last five years, using databases such as Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Cuban databases, and Cuban scientific repositories.

Conclusions: The application of Lean methodology in Pathology laboratories demonstrates significant benefits. In Cuba, specific initiatives confirm its feasibility, but the reviewed literature found no evidence of its application in Pathology laboratories. Its implementation in these laboratories in Cuba requires a model adapted to its specific socioeconomic circumstances.