Abstract
This paper reports the development of a simulation model of the radiotherapy department of Walsgrave Hospital and shows the results of experiments conducted using the model. In the radiotherapy department a key target is the number of days from the time that the consultant refers the patient to the department to the date that the patient receives their first treatment. Many factors can affect this time and this project has attempted to identify and quantify the effects of these factors. Initial discussions were held to provide a framework for the study. These discussions were followed by a series of visits to the department to observe the way in which it operates and to interview staff in each of the main areas of work. Following this a flow diagram of the department was produced. This was used as a basis for the development of a computer simulation model which represents the way in which a patient moves through the department, from referral by a consultant, to the planning of the treatment, to the treatment itself, and finally discharge from the hospital. A series of experiments was used to evaluate the effects of changes to the input to the model, the number of resources in the model and the way in which the department operates. Finally, recommendations are made for future work to develop the model further and suggestions are made for its application.
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Notes on contributors
S Proctor
Sue Proctor completed her MSc by Research at Coventry University. Her research areas include simulation modelling and health, especially in resource use and planning. Sue also manages
B Lehaney
Brian Lehaney is Professor of Systems Management in the Department of Knowledge and Information Management, which is within Coventry University's Faculty of Engineering and Computing. His research includes decision support for organisations, especially the theories and application of knowledge management, simulation modelling, and intervention methodologies.
C Reeves
Colin Reeves is Emeritus Professor of Operational Research in the Dept of Mathematical Sciences at Coventry University. Since 2006 he has retired from teaching, but is still active in research, where his main interests are in computational intelligence, the modelling of real-world systems, and the development and mathematical analysis of heuristic methods for optimization.
Z Khan
Zulfiqar Khan is a Senior Lecturer and Postgraduate Programme Manager in the Department of Knowledge and Information Management at Coventry University (UK). His primary research interests are in logistics management, lean management and world-class manufacturing. Additional interests lie in information and business management.