Modeling access, cost, and perceived quality: computer simulation benefits orthodontic clinic staffing decisions

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Operations Research
• Dental Practice Administration

Background:

• Limited financial resources necessitate efficient operational strategies in orthodontic clinics.
• Optimizing staffing levels is crucial for balancing service access, quality, and cost.
• Managerial decision-making requires data-driven insights for effective resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal staffing mix of orthodontists and dental assistants in an orthodontic clinic.
• To maximize patient access and perceived quality while minimizing operational expenditures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of computer simulation as a decision support tool for clinic management.

Main Methods:

• Development of a computer simulation model for an orthodontic service.
• Comparison of six different provider and support staff combinations.
• Animated, computer-generated 'what-if' analysis to assess various staffing scenarios.

Main Results:

• The study identified an optimal staffing mix of one orthodontist and three dental assistants.
• Analysis considered clinic workload, size, cost per patient, and cost per quality point.
• Simulation provided data for informed managerial review and decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Computer simulation is a valuable decision support tool for orthodontic clinic management.
• The recommended staffing mix of 1:3 (orthodontist to assistant) offers the best balance of access, quality, and cost.
• Efficient staffing models are essential for financial sustainability and optimal patient care in dental practices.