Exploring alternative routes to realising the benefits of simulation in healthcare

Citation

Bowers J, Ghattas M & Mould G (2012) Exploring alternative routes to realising the benefits of simulation in healthcare. Journal of the Operational Research Society, 63 (10), pp. 1457-1466. https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2011.127

Abstract
Discrete event simulation should offer numerous benefits in designing healthcare systems but the reality is often problematic. Healthcare modelling faces particular challenges: genuine, fundamental variations in practice and an opposition to any suggestion of standardisation from some professional groups. This paper compares the experiences of developing a new simulation in an Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department, a subsequent adaptation for modelling an outpatient clinic and applications of a generic A&E simulation. These studies provide examples of three distinct approaches to realising the potential benefits of simulation: the bespoke, the reuse and the generic route. Reuse has many advantages: it is relatively efficient in exploiting previous modelling experience, delivering timely results while providing scope for adaptations to local practice. Explicitly demonstrating this willingness to adapt to local conditions and engaging with stakeholders is particularly important in healthcare simulation.

Keywords
health service; emergency departments; simulation; Medicine Study and teaching Simulation methods; Simulated patients

Journal
Journal of the Operational Research Society: Volume 63, Issue 10