Modelling the Accessibility of Adult Psychology Services Using Discrete Event Simulation

Abstract

With a growing number of people seeking treatment for mental health problems, mental health services are consequently coming under increased pressure resulting in longer waiting times and worsening of mental health problems. Service underfunding, overworked staff, and the looming threat of further demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic only add to the concerns. Hence it is imperative the efficiencies of these services are maximised to allow better access to quality treatment. We created a Discrete Event Simulation model to replicate the current clinical approach taken in an adult psychology clinic in the U.K.'s National Health Service. The model identifies bottlenecks in the service, and provides results on how different staffing scenarios could alleviate challenges.

A quantitative simulation–based modeling approach for college counseling centers

“…[62][63][64] For instance, Kim et al 62 develop a DES model for the White River Junction Veterans Affairs Medical Center and recommend increasing service hours by two and employing an extra psychiatrist. More recently, Howells et al 65 construct a DES model of a psychology clinic in the United Kingdom, and analyze the impact of different staffing configurations on reducing patient waiting times. They conclude that employing additional dedicated carecoordinators can improve patient flow.…”

Prescriptive Healthcare Analytics: A Tutorial on Discrete Optimization and Simulation

“…Mental health is a significant global concern, not only for public health but also for economic development and societal welfare [4]. We focus on a DES model developed by Howells et al (2022) [5]. They carried out a what-if analysis i.e.…”