A comprehensive simulation for wait time reduction and capacity planning applied in general surgery

Abstract

This paper describes the use of operational research techniques to analyze the wait list for the Division of General Surgery at the Capital District Health Authority in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. A discrete event simulation model was developed to aid capacity planning decisions and to analyze the performance of the division. The analysis examined the consequences of redistributing beds between sites, and achieving standard patient lengths of stay, while contrasting them to current and additional resource options. From the results, multiple independent and combined options for stabilizing and decreasing waits for elective procedures were proposed.

Modeling the critical care pathway for cardiothoracic surgery

“…Many authors have used simulation to solve complex hospital operations problems with compelling results [19][20][21][22][23][24]. Recent advances in capturing large data is carving the way for such advanced analytical tools.…”

Adaptive resource allocation for efficient patient scheduling

“…[8][9][10], for an overview see [2,11]. Most approaches consider the capacity allocation problem on a strategic level; the allocation is static on the operational level.…”

Suitability and managerial implications of a Master Surgical Scheduling approach

“…The dimensioning of subsequent departments' resources (e.g. ICUs, ward beds) is also done (Vanberkel and Blake 2007). Strategic planning is typically based on historical data and/or forecasts.…”

“…Its schedule influences processes throughout the hospital (van Oostrum et al 2008). Also, other departments like the intensive care units (ICUs) and wards pose constraints on the OR schedule that may not be ignored (e.g., bed availability after surgery; Vanberkel and Blake 2007). From an operations research perspective, OR planning and scheduling obviously poses very challenging problems.…”