Application of queuing theory for OutPatient Department in Kurunegala Teaching Hospital : a case study

Abstract

The Kurunegala teaching hospital was used as a case study for this study's computer simulation testing of patient queueing model. The majority of public hospitals in Sri Lanka, like Kurunegala teaching hospital, have long wait times for services, which is what stimulated the study. In essence, such a circumstance results in poor service quality, which dissatisfies many patients. Four cases were analyzed for this study, in terms of one-hour sessions from 8 a.m. to 12 noon at the outpatient department in the Kurunegala teaching hospital. The results of each simulated queuing model were critically reviewed. According to cases 1, 2, 3, and 4, which involved different time intervals, respectively, the model evaluated the waiting period and the number of patients that depart. Results of a queuing theory study are compiled in the summary of study consisting the waiting times, the utilization analyses, and the number of patients who depart after receiving consultation. The intention is to give analysts who are considering modeling a healthcare process using queueing theory enough information to locate the specifics of pertinent models. The results of simulation studies emphasized the requirement of sufficient doctors at the OPD during peak hours in morning. As a result, the Kurunegala teaching hospital in Sri Lanka can plan respective healthcare practices based on a simulation study.