IMPROVING LOGISTICAL PROCEDURE WITHIN A HOSPITAL INPATIENT PHARMACY


Edward J. Williams, Vanessa Harp, Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Michigan – Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128 U. S. A.
williame@umdsun2.umd.umich.edu

ABSTRACT: Discrete-process simulation, which first earned an enviable position of respect in the manufacturing sector, is now doing the same in many other economic sectors, including public transport, warehousing, entertainment, service, and health care. In the study described herein, simulation was used to improve the logistical procedure by which a pharmacy within a large hospital provided its service of filling prescriptions to the patients, doctors, and nurses in the hospital proper. Specifically, a simulation study undertaken at the request of hospital management pointed the way to significantly reduce the elapsed time between the submission of a prescription by a physician or nurse and the receipt of the filled prescription of the floor where the pertinent patient is receiving medical and hospital care.

KEYWORDS: Air Transportation, Passenger Demand, Fare Classes, Airline Seat Inventory Control, Optimal Policies of Airline Booking.

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