Acuity scheduling systems: a case study in radiology

To improve efficiency, the special procedures division of a radiology department at a Florida hospital chose to implement an acuity system designed specifically to ease patient scheduling problems. The matrix-based acuity system minimized overtime hours for radiologic technologists, nurses and physicians while maximizing patient throughput and staff utilization. The acuity system was tested using General Purpose Simulation System (GPSS). Test results were positive, and the hospital plans to implement the system for patient scheduling.