3022. Modelling the UK government’s ambition to reduce the NHS elective waiting list and improve waiting times
Invited abstract in session MC-11: Scheduling and queuing in healthcare, stream OR in Healthcare (ORAHS).
Monday, 12:30-14:00Room: Clarendon SR 1.03
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Tineke Poot
|
| NHS England |
Abstract
Reducing NHS elective waiting times is one of the UK government’s six main missions. The complexity of informing decisions at a national level requires a responsive and adaptable approach to modelling, capable of addressing constantly shifting scenarios, evolving challenges, and tight timeframes. This talk will present an overview of the national NHS elective demand, activity, and waiting list modelling, which I lead within NHS England to guide government decision-making. I will explore the practical application of simple yet powerful modelling techniques, such as basic forecasting and queuing theory, to provide rapid insights for policymakers.
I will use this example to challenges the notion that modelling requires big data and complex code. A key benefit of using simple tools is that they facilitate closer collaboration with finance colleagues, allowing for quicker, more effective cross-disciplinary problem-solving. Highlighting the challenges of working with imperfect data and responding rapidly to urgent queries, this session will provide valuable perspectives on the flexibility and resilience required in operational research to support real-world decision-making in the public sector.
[Note: I'm not sure which stream this would best fit. I've suggested health, but could be relevant for something more practitioner focussed.]
Keywords
- Health Care
- Practice of OR
- Queuing Systems
Status: accepted
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