Public health services are struggling to cope with rising demand.

Strain on health services manifests as longer waiting lists for surgery, queuing in the emergency departments, increased rates of adverse events, and delays in discharge, particularly for older patients.

Traditional responses are not resolving these problems.

Analysis shows that the day-to-day system processes underlying clinical care are poorly designed and do not produce a well planned, well coordinated patient journey.

Numerous disconnections along the continuum of care have a cumulative effect in obstructing patient flow and causing frustration for patients and staff.

Rigorous clinical process redesign methods can significantly improve performance, even in the face of rising demand.