128. A discrete-event simulation model to improve the appointment process and the patient flow of an MRI department
Invited abstract in session FA-1: Simulation 2, stream Sessions.
Friday, 9:00-10:30Room: NTNU, Realfagbygget R5
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Marie Petit
|
| FEB, KU Leuven | |
| 2. | Erik Demeulemeester
|
| KBI, KU Leuven |
Abstract
In addition to operating rooms, diagnostic equipment ranks among the most critical resources in many hospitals. In Belgium, the number and distribution of scanners across hospitals are regulated by the government, while the demand for diagnostic imaging continues to rise. This discrepancy between regulated scanner availability and rising demand often results in long access times, particularly in university hospitals such as UZ Leuven, which offers the full spectrum of imaging services, including highly complex examinations. Depending on the type of examination, patients may face waiting times of several months to secure an appointment. This not only negatively impacts patient satisfaction but, more importantly, may lead to adverse medical outcomes.
This study presents a detailed discrete-event simulation model that replicates the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) process at UZ Leuven. The model captures both the appointment scheduling system and the patient flow, accounting for both direct and indirect waiting times. It incorporates multiple heterogeneous scanners, patient characteristics, unpunctuality and no-show probabilities. A variety of scenarios are simulated and evaluated using key performance indicators (KPIs). Based on the outcomes, recommendations are provided to the hospital regarding slot categorization, strategies for improving scheduling practices and measures to reduce direct and/or indirect waiting times.
Keywords
- Modelling and simulation
- Patient scheduling
- Access and waiting list
Status: accepted
Back to the list of papers