Optimum Utilization of Hospital Ancillary Services: Part VIII, Appendix VII, Determination of Transfers for Misplaced Patients: An Analytical Optimization Procedure

摘要

The objective of this study was to expedite the flow of patients through the hospital by finding new methods for scheduling essential services. The grantee studied the interaction of the factors that arrest patient flow such as admission policies, bed allocation and operating room capability. A mathematical model of the problem was constructed and tested. Findings: A set of decision rules have been evolved that assist hospital administrators in scheduling the use of hospital services in such a way that the effective capacity of the hospital is increased. Widespread adoption of this method would significantly reduce the number of hospital beds required in the Nation, reduce hospital stay, and contain costs.