Abstract

The UK National Health Service (NHS) remains a vital part of the nation’s economy. Receiving the biggest share of the nation’s annual budget, the demand for higher quality and safer healthcare is justifiably ever increasing. The problem is further compounded by the increasing pressure to drive such improvements in performance whilst reducing cost. In response to these pressures, healthcare professionals and many researchers with engineering background are employing various engineering concepts and tools to help meet the challenge for improved performance in the healthcare systems. One of the most effective methodologies employed is simulation modelling. In this presentation, two previous works done in an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department and an Operating Theatre department of two major NHS Trusts in London using Discrete Event Simulation (DES) modelling technique are presented. The models were used as a platform for testing various operational alternatives to help managers make informed decisions. The presentation will end with a brief discussion of a broader perspective of the application of systems modelling and simulation for health service improvement.