About the project
The project identifies operational problems that arise in hospitals, and proposes solutions that contribute to improving operations.
A multimethodology, consisting of a problem-structuring method and data simulation, is exploited. The methods are combined to systematically identify, define and gain agreement among employees on the issues that arise.
The identified problems are studied through simulation models, which in turn are used to evaluate and quantify potential effects of proposed operational changes.
We collaborate with various departments at Akershus University Hospital (Ahus). The focus over the past year has been on analysis in "Hospital at Home for Children."
See details about Hospital at Home for Children here: Hospital at home for children - Institute of Clinical Medicine (uio.no)
Aim
The aim of the project is to study operations in various departments to optimize resource utilization and patient flow.
By combining problem structuring and simulation modeling, the project provide insights that contribute to improved and efficient delivery of healthcare services.
The focus on optimizing resource utilization ensures that proposed solutions are effective within existing frameworks and resources. Simulation of potential future scenarios can also be used to prepare for increasing demands in healthcare.
Method
The project uses "Discrete Event Simulation modeling" and the problem-structuring method "Soft Systems Methodology" in a three-step process:
- Problem structuring: study existing challenges to identify areas for improvement.
- Simulation modeling: develop data simulation models to study the identified problem areas.
- Scenario simulation: simulate different scenarios of resource utilization using the simulation model. This will help identify the most effective use of available resources and optimize patient flow within given limitations and resource availability.
Financing
The project is funded by the Research Council of Norway as a work package at the research-based innovation center, Center for Connected Care (C3), and through in-kind contributions from Ahus.