Introduction. The introduction of methadone tablets at the Addiction Service (SerD) of ASST PG23 represented a major therapeutic innovation in the management of opioid use disorder, requiring a reorganization based on Lean Management principles. The aim of this case report is to describe the transition to the new formulation, analyzing its organizational impact with specific attention to the strategic role of nurses.
Methods. The process was structured into three phases: definition of the intervention scope and context analysis; process mapping to identify critical issues and improvement areas; application of Lean principles followed by the standardization of drug management protocols. Nurses played a key role, overseeing the phases from a planning, organizational, and operational perspective, in synergy with the multidisciplinary team.
Results. The transition reduced preparation and administration times. Logistical management was optimized (storage capacity ↑71%, orders ↓46%), ensuring adequate stock levels, absence of waste, traceability, and appropriateness. Adherence to treatment was high, with a gradual increase in treated patients (23 in 2023, 54 in 2024, 90 by mid-2025).
Conclusions. The transition represented a significant organizational change, effectively supported by the application of Lean principles. Nursing leadership was crucial to structure and consolidate the change, ensuring continuity and quality of the therapeutic pathway.
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Sitografia
Ministero della Salute (2023). Riclassificazione del medicinale per uso umano «Omtisa», ai sensi dell›art. 8, comma 10, della legge 24 dicembre 1993, n. 537. (Determina n. 516/2023) (23A04408) (GU Serie Generale n.185 del 09-08-2023). https://www.gazzettaufficiale.it/eli/id/2023/08/09/23A04408/sg.
