THE USE OF SIMULATION IN THE DETERMINATION OF MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY FOR HOSPITAL FACILITIES

Publisher Summary A method is needed to predict accurately the maximum average occupancy attainable in any hospital, by unit or nursing station, over a wide variety of conditions. This can be achieved by isolating and statistically quantifying the principal effects and interactions of several factors characterizing the supply of and the demand for hospital care on the attainable maximum average occupancy. The most important use of the simulation results is for cost control purposes. The number of beds that a hospital has staffed is the most important cost-control variable. The simulation results, when modified for local conditions, will enable administrators and third-party payers to make the estimates of the number of beds that result in minimum cost levels. These factors frequently cause the reconsideration of operating policies concerning the ability to admit emergency patients, the use of sub-quality beds such as hall beds, and appropriate waiting times for the admission of the patients to the different services. To be valid, the simulation results have to depend on a specified admissions scheduling system. The effect on potential occupancies and the control of cancellations and turn ways of a contemporary admissions system is just being realized. The simulation results give a measure of the potential.