Analysis of capacity decisions for progressive patient care hospital facilities

In this study we provide a methodology for investigating the relationships between capacity decisions and selected performance measures for a progressive patient care facility. The methodology is illustrated with published data from a coronary care facility. The facility is modeled using a simulation approach. The utilization rate of each unit, the fraction of transfers blocked in each unit, and the proportion of each unit's patient-days resulting from inappropriate use are determined for a range of capacity levels. Finally, the results of this experimentation are transformed by regression analysis into prediction equations that give insight into the sensitivity of these performance measures to capacity levels and provide a useful tool for guiding resource allocation decisions.