97. Reusable Simulation of Emergency Departments: A Domain-Specific Modelling Language Approach
Invited abstract in session HD-4: Poster session 2, stream Sessions.
Thursday, 13:30-14:00Room: St Olavs, Kunnskapssenteret KA12
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | BoFan Zhang
|
| Department of Informatics, King's College London | |
| 2. | Steffen Zschaler
|
| Department of Informatics, King's College London |
Abstract
Discrete event simulation (DES) has long supported process improvement in emergency departments (EDs). However, because most DES models are not designed for reuse, they are often developed from scratch for each ED setting. This limits their broader potential to support efficient and evidence-based change in healthcare. Additionally, non-technical stakeholders (e.g. ED clinicians) often depend on simulation experts to translate their knowledge into models, slowing iteration and reducing direct engagement.
To address this, we propose a reusable simulation framework based on a domain-specific modelling language (DSML) tailored for ED operations. The DSML offers intuitive, high-level modelling constructs aligned with ED workflows, enabling healthcare experts to build and adapt models without requiring programming knowledge.
Utilising a design science approach, we aim to develop a web-based modelling workbench that integrates graphical and text editors to help experts better use the DSML. We will validate our DSML-based approach through case studies in multiple EDs, including evaluations of model correctness, cross-ED reusability, and usability for healthcare professionals.
We build on existing efforts on generalise ED simulation modelling and extend them with DSML and toolchain. We expect our approach to promote more accessible and transferable simulation practices in time-critical ED settings.
Keywords
- Emergency Department
- Modelling and simulation
- Patient flow
Status: accepted
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