The optimization of total laboratory automation by simulation of a pull-strategy.
J Med Syst
; 39(1): 162, 2015 Jan.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-25472727
ABSTRACT
Laboratory results are essential for physicians to diagnose medical conditions. Because of the critical role of medical laboratories, an increasing number of hospitals use total laboratory automation (TLA) to improve laboratory performance. Although the benefits of TLA are well documented, systems occasionally become congested, particularly when hospitals face peak demand. This study optimizes TLA operations. Firstly, value stream mapping (VSM) is used to identify the non-value-added time. Subsequently, batch processing control and parallel scheduling rules are devised and a pull mechanism that comprises a constant work-in-process (CONWIP) is proposed. Simulation optimization is then used to optimize the design parameters and to ensure a small inventory and a shorter average cycle time (CT). For empirical illustration, this approach is applied to a real case. The proposed methodology significantly improves the efficiency of laboratory work and leads to a reduction in patient waiting times and increased service level.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Laboratories, Hospital
/
Efficiency, Organizational
/
Automation, Laboratory
Type of study:
Prognostic_studies
Limits:
Humans
Language:
En
Journal:
J Med Syst
Year:
2015
Document type:
Article