Using simulation in the implementation of an Outpatient Procedure Center

Creation of an outpatient procedure center (OPC) is a complicated endeavor, requiring a detailed understanding of the resources available and the procedures to be performed. Miscalculation of resource allocation or patient flow through the area can result in the waste of expensive resources, patient dissatisfaction, and health care provider inefficiency. The use of discrete event simulation can assist in the design of an OPC with the ultimate goal of reducing resource waste and improving patient flow through the system. In this article we provide a case study of the application of a discrete event simulation model used to support analysis required for moving an existing group (interventional procedures for pain medicine) into a new area. This resulted in major changes to the group¿s practice and modified the new facility utilization.