225. Managing the Ripple Effect: Dynamic Waiting Lists, Resource Constraints, and Adaptive Hospital Case Mix Planning for Internal Management and External Influence
Invited abstract in session MC-1: Simulation 1, stream Sessions.
Monday, 11:00-12:30Room: NTNU, Realfagbygget R5
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Sebastian Kraul
|
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam |
Abstract
Hospitals operate as complex service systems under constant pressure to enhance efficiency, ensure financial viability, and provide equitable access, often facing scrutiny from policymakers and insurers regarding performance, particularly concerning waiting lists. Central to navigating these pressures is effective capacity management and strategic case mix planning. However, traditional case mix planning often relies on static assumptions, failing to capture the dynamic interplay between strategic plans, operational constraints, and evolving waiting lists. This disconnect hinders not only effective internal management but also the ability of external stakeholders to design interventions, as they often lack instruments grounded in the operational realities of waiting list dynamics.
This research develops a novel hybrid simulation-optimization framework for dynamic case mix planning. We employ Discrete-Event Simulation to evaluate the impact of waiting list policies. The simulation output dynamically informs an optimization model that adjusts the target case mix to better align strategic goals with operational realities reflected in waiting list dynamics. By simulating the downstream operational consequences of different strategic hospital choices or potential external incentive structures, it provides a tool to better understand system levers and design policies aimed at improving timely access to care and managing waiting lists systemically.
Keywords
- Resource scheduling
- Modelling and simulation
- Strategic and operational planning
Status: accepted
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