Optimal scheduling using length-of-stay data for diverse routine procedures

Abstract

The paper describes the use of length-of-stay data to derive an optimal schedule for operating theatres. We consider situations where there are a large number of types of procedures that must be scheduled. The general approach we describe is to classify procedures by their length-of-stay data. An efficient scheduling tool can then be used to determine the optimal schedule for operations, where the aim is to reduce variability in the number of beds being used. We describe the application of the method using a case study coming from a network of private hospitals in the UK. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.