The objective of this literature review is to provide an updated synthesis of knowledge on operations management in the sector's service systems with an international and national focus, in which the current context shows a growth in the demand for health services, and this exceeds the response capacity of the institutions that comprise it. In the face of this, significant challenges arise that affect the quality of service and patient satisfaction. Factors such as resource scarcity, changes in government policies, and operational constraints are factors that exacerbate these problems.
To address this problem, the methodology implemented follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) approach, which includes the identification, selection and evaluation of scientific articles from various academic databases. Studies focused on operational management in the health sector and the application of continuous improvement methodologies were reviewed. In particular, management tools such as Theory of Constraints, Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma are analyzed, highlighting their potential to increase operational efficiency and improve the quality of service in health institutions, in a period of time of 10 years (2014 - 2024).
This review seeks to offer a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in the management of operations within the health sector in Cartagena, as well as to lay the foundations for future research and possible interventions that optimize operational processes in this critical sector.