Desktop microsimulation: a tool to improve efficiency in the medical office practice

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Operations Research
• Industrial Engineering

Background:

• Economic challenges necessitate healthcare optimization.
• Discrete-event simulation (DES) is a proven tool for process redesign analysis.
• Applying DES to consolidate orthopedic practices in an unfinished building presented unique challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To utilize discrete-event simulation for optimizing the consolidation of four orthopedic surgery practices.
• To forecast operational outcomes and inform decision-making for a new medical office building.
• To evaluate the impact of process changes on key performance indicators.

Main Methods:

• A discrete-event computer simulation package was employed to model practice operations.
• Scenarios were developed to assess process changes' effects on exam room, patient queue, and staff utilization.
• A status quo model was compared against proposed process changes.

Main Results:

• The simulation model identified impacts of process changes on patient queues (check-in/out, x-ray, cast room) and resource utilization.
• It provided data-driven insights for space allocation and efficient exam room usage.
• Decisions regarding facility layout, patient flow, and staff functions were influenced by the analysis.

Conclusions:

• Discrete-event simulation is a valuable tool for healthcare process redesign and strategic decision-making.
• Simulation can effectively guide operational improvements even before a facility is occupied.
• The study demonstrated the utility of DES in optimizing the complex process of medical practice consolidation.