Session 1: Introduction of Queuing Theory Models and Their Application in Health Care
Date: Wednesday January 11, 2006
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Eastern Time
- Provide an overview of queuing theory principles
- Introduce queuing theory models and their application to patient flow
Action Period 1:
January 11–February 1, 2006
Participating hospitals review queuing theory models and how they can be applied within their hospitals.
Estimated time commitment: 2 hours per team
Session 2: Review of Queuing Models and Examples of Application to Patient Flow
Date: Wednesday, February 1, 2006
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Eastern Time
- Continue discussion of queuing models
- Provide specific examples of how queuing theory can be used to understand waiting times, diversion rates, number of beds needed, etc.
Action Period 2:
February 1–22, 2006
Participating hospitals apply queuing theory to specific issues related to patient flow in their hospitals.
Estimated time commitment: 5 hours if 1 person reviews (less if more people), 1 hour for team discussion
Session 3: Applying Queuing Theory to Address Specific Issues Related to Patient Flow
Date: Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Eastern Time
- Discuss the application of queuing theory to address participating hospitals’ specific issues and problems with patient flow
