Comprehensive operational modeling and simulation policy development: Private sector healthcare systems and the US Military Healthcare System

The author performed four pilot simulation projects for the US Military Health System (MHS) before being awarded a contract to develop guidelines on the use of simulation throughout the MHS. The process was difficult because the MHS´ existing methodologies are based on static rules-of-thumb and do not account for simulation´s dynamic, performance-based processes. Initial project results were so positive, however, that the MHS decided it needed to begin to change its approach and fund the subject study. The policy guidelines have nine components: 1) Reasons for Implementing Simulation; 2) Current Industry Practice Overview; 3) Expected Benefits; 4) Typical Data Requirements; 5) Typical Time Requirements; 6) Typical Schedule Requirements; 7) Typical Cost Requirements; 8) Facility Life Cycle Management Integration and Impact; and 9) Implementation Scope and Schedule Decision Framework.