How can decision makers be supported in the improvement of an emergency department? A simulation, optimization and data mining approach

This article presents a novel approach in healthcare in which Discrete Event Simulation, Simulation-Based Multi-Objective Optimization and Data Mining techniques are used in combination. This methodology has been applied for a system improvement analysis in a Swedish emergency department. As a result of the project, the decision makers were provided with a range of nearly optimal solutions and design rules which reduce considerably the length of stay and waiting times for emergency department patients. These solutions include the optimal number of resources and the required level of improvement in key processes. The article presents and discusses the benefits achieved by applying this methodology, which has proven to be remarkably valuable for decision-making support, with regard to complex healthcare system design and improvement.
Source: Operations Research for Health Care - Category: Hospital Management Source Type: research