Computer simulation-a case study for bed allocation and operating room throughput analysis

Determining the optimal allocation and number of beds by clinical speciality in large university hospitals is rather complex. The complexity stems from the interdependence of numerous factors and variables that affect the result. This case study documents a computer simulation technique used to predict the demand for and allocation of beds by specialty based on medical and surgical service utilization and the operating room throughput. A computer simulation model was developed and written in GPSS language for use on a microcomputer. The model was constructed to mimic the current operations, bed utilization, admission patterns, and operating room throughput. The model was then utilized to analyze the impact of various scenarios which can be implemented by management.<>