A Semi-open Queueing Network Approach to the Analysis of Patient Flow in Healthcare Systems

  • Authors:
  • Haifeng Xie;Theirry Chaussalet;Mike Rees

  • Affiliations:
  • University of Westminster, UK;University of Westminster, UK;University of Westminster, UK

  • Venue:
  • CBMS '07 Proceedings of the Twentieth IEEE International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems
  • Year:
  • 2007

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Abstract

In this paper, we present a modelling framework for patient flow in a healthcare system using semi-open queueing network models, which introduces a total bed constraint, above which new patients will be refused admission. Hence this model provides a realistic representation of a real system. This approach enables us to have access to a range of established methods that deals with queueing network models. We demonstrate the usefulness of the model in the context of a geriatric department and show that hospital managers can use this model to gain better understanding of the dynamics of patient flow and to study potential long-term impacts of policy changes.