Cost comparison of orthopaedic fracture pathways using discrete event simulation in a Glasgow hospital.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Healthcare faces the continual challenge of improving outcome while aiming to reduce cost. The aim of this study was to determine the micro cost differences of the Glasgow non-operative trauma virtual pathway in comparison to a traditional pathway.

Design

Discrete event simulation was used to model and analyse cost and resource utilisation with an activity-based costing approach. Data for a full comparison before the process change was unavailable so we used a modelling approach, comparing a virtual fracture clinic (VFC) with a simulated traditional fracture clinic (TFC).

Setting

The orthopaedic unit VFC pathway pioneered at Glasgow Royal Infirmary has attracted significant attention and interest and is the focus of this cost study.

Outcome measures

O

SUBMITTER: Anderson GH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5595193 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature