A linear goal programming model for human resource allocation in a health-care organization

Area of Science:

• Operations Research
• Health Care Management
• Management Science

Background:

• Healthcare organizations face challenges in strategic human resource planning.
• Efficient allocation of limited personnel is crucial for operational success and cost-effectiveness.
• Balancing cost reduction with patient satisfaction requires sophisticated planning tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and apply a goal programming (GP) model for strategic human resource allocation in healthcare.
• To optimize personnel shift assignments to minimize total payroll costs.
• To ensure high levels of patient satisfaction through effective staffing.

Main Methods:

• Development of a goal programming (GP) model tailored for healthcare resource allocation.
• Identification and prioritization of management and patient-related goals.
• Application of the GP model using data from a Midwest healthcare organization.
• Examination of model results and performance of sensitivity analysis.

Main Results:

• The GP model provides a framework for strategic planning and resource allocation.
• The model successfully aids in assigning personnel to shifts to meet defined objectives.
• Sensitivity analysis enhances the model's applicability and robustness in real-world scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The developed GP model offers valuable insights for human resource planning in healthcare organizations.
• The model demonstrates an effective approach to minimizing payroll costs while maintaining patient satisfaction.
• The proposed methodology is adaptable for human resource planning in various organizational contexts.