Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
883455515
Link(s) to full text
LAC copy
LAC copy
Author
Pendharkar, Sachin Raveendra,1976-
Title
Improving Patient Access : using Computer Simulation to Increase the Operational Efficiency of an Academic Sleep Centre.
Degree
M. Sc. -- University of Calgary, 2011
Publisher
Ottawa : Library and Archives Canada = Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, [2012]
©2011
Description
3 microfiches.
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
<?Pub Inc> Objectives: Access to timely therapy is problematic for patients with sleep disorders. The purpose of the current study was to identify and mitigate operational barriers to access for patients referred to an academic sleep centre (SC). Methods: A discrete-event simulation (DES) model of patient flow was used to identify sources of congestion. Alternative model configurations were tested for effects on time from referral to treatment initiation. Results were analyzed by urgency and diagnosis. Results: Simulation results revealed that removal of triage urgency and increased physician capacity improved access. The elimination of alternate care provider clinics dramatically worsened outcomes. Increasing respiratory therapist capacity did not affect model outcomes, but improved utilization. Physician supply and resources for advanced diagnostic testing were deemed insufficient to meet referral demand. Conclusion: The DES model quantified impacts of operational policies that could improve access to the SC, although inadequate supply was also identified as a contributor to long waiting lists.
ISBN
9780494813782
0494813784