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Abstract
Background and Aims Two models (example in figure 1) were created in AnyLogic 7 (The AnyLogic Company, 2015). One model simulates a standard operating room complex with three operating theatres, whilst the other model simulates a block room configuration with one block room supplying three operating theatres. The block room model was then used to assess changes in staffing. Each model was run 1000 times, to simulate 1000 work days.
Methods Two models (example in figure 1) were created in AnyLogic 7 (The AnyLogic Company, 2015). One model simulates a standard operating room complex with three operating theatres, whilst the other model simulates a block room configuration with one block room supplying three operating theatres. The block room model was then used to assess changes in staffing. Each model was run 1000 times, to simulate 1000 work days.
Results The number of completed operations were compared (figure 2) The standard configuration completed 19 operations over three operating theatres (SD 0.99), in comparison the addition of a block room increased this to 23.8 (SD 2.66). The modelling of staffing effects (figure 3) showed that throughput could be sustained despite a reduction in anaesthetic staff.
Example of block room model
Standard vs block room
Block room staffing effects
Conclusions We used simulation modelling to test the possible benefits of implementing a block room, as well as the likely impact of changes to staffing on its patient throughput. This offers useful insights into the planning and organisation of a new pathway before committing to the cost and disruption associated with service reconfiguration.